2018 Remirez de Ganuza Fincas de Ganuza Reserva

Remírez de Ganuza Winery

Remírez de Ganuza is one of the most precise and progressive producers in Rioja. Based in Samaniego, in Rioja Alavesa, the estate works with a strong focus on selection, detail, and quality. Through innovative techniques and a meticulous approach in both the vineyard and the cellar, wines are created that possess concentration, finesse, and a distinctive style. More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

The vineyards are situated in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria, an area that offers protection against extreme weather conditions and ensures a favorable microclimate. The combination of altitude, calcareous soils, and temperature differences between day and night yields wines with structure, freshness, and aromatic precision.

Vineyards and grape varieties

The grapes come from vineyards with an average age of 25 to 40 years, spread across various plots at the foot of the Sierra Cantabria. The blend consists of 88% Tempranillo, supplemented with 7% Graciano, 3% Garnacha, and 2% Viura. This composition ensures a beautiful balance between ripe fruit, structure, and freshness.

Harvest, vinification and aging

The grapes are harvested by hand and transported in small 12-kilogram crates to prevent damage. Before fermentation, the grapes are first cooled to 4 to 6 degrees and kept for 24 hours to preserve maximum aromatic purity. This is followed by a strict selection on sorting tables.

Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks and concrete vats of various shapes and sizes. The wine then ages for 22 months in 225-liter French oak barrels, 30% of which are new and 70% second-use, ensuring a balanced oak influence and added complexity.

Color, smell and taste

The wine has a deep ruby red color with a slight evolution towards garnet. On the nose, aromas of ripe red and black fruit emerge, complemented by notes of spices, cedarwood, and a light balsamic touch.

On the palate, the wine is smooth and structured, with ripe tannins and a good balance between fruit and wood. The acidity provides freshness and tension, while aging in oak adds extra depth and length. The finish is elegant and persistent, with notes of spices and lightly toasted accents.

Development and drinking window

The wine is accessible now but can also develop further for a few more years. The expected drinking window is between 2024 and 2032, during which time the wine will gain in complexity and softness.

Summary of professional reviews

The Fincas de Ganuza Reserva 2018 is regarded as an accessible yet serious Rioja, with a beautiful balance between ripe fruit, fresh acidity, and integrated oak. The wine combines drinking pleasure with structure and aging potential. The full review texts can be found in the tab: Professional reviews.

Wine & Food Pairing and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.

Short summary

The 2018 Fincas de Ganuza Reserva is an elegant Rioja with notes of ripe red and black fruit, spices, and subtle wood. With 22 months of aging in French oak and a blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Garnacha, the wine offers balance, finesse, and a drinking window until approximately 2032.