2014 Pujanza Cisma

The 2014 Bodegas Pujanza Cisma is a commanding single-vineyard red from the hills of Rioja Alavesa, crafted in tiny quantities from some of the estate’s oldest vines. It represents the most focused, terroir-driven expression in the Pujanza range, aimed at collectors and serious Rioja lovers. Combining modern precision with classic Rioja depth, this wine captures the elegance and tension that have made Alavesa one of Spain’s most coveted regions.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2014 Cisma shows a deep, intense ruby core with garnet reflections at the rim, hinting at its evolution while retaining remarkable concentration. The nose is layered and complex: ripe black cherry and blackberry weave together with redcurrant, dried rose petal, and fine baking spices, framed by notes of cedar, graphite, tobacco leaf, and a touch of cocoa and vanilla from French oak. On the palate, this is a powerful yet finely sculpted Rioja, with firm, chalk-dusted tannins and vibrant acidity that keep the wine poised and fresh. Dark berry fruit, plum, and black cherry are joined by savory nuances of balsamic, dried herbs, licorice, and a subtle mineral edge that speaks clearly of its limestone soils. The finish is long, persistent, and increasingly spicy, with lingering notes of smoke and fine oak. Still youthful for its age, the 2014 Cisma has clear aging potential: it will continue to develop greater aromatic complexity and tertiary notes of leather, dried flowers, and truffle over the next 8–12 years, and can comfortably be cellared beyond that in good conditions.

Production
Cisma is sourced from a single, historic vineyard in Rioja Alavesa, planted with old Tempranillo vines rooted in poor, limestone-clay soils at relatively high altitude. This cool, elevated terroir brings natural freshness, fine tannin structure, and an unmistakable mineral line to the wine. Grapes are hand-harvested in small boxes with meticulous selection both in the vineyard and at the winery to ensure only perfectly ripe, healthy bunches are used. Fermentation typically takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel or small vats, with careful extraction to preserve finesse over power. The wine is then aged for an extended period—often around 18–20 months—in mainly French oak barrels, a mix of new and second-use, followed by additional bottle aging before release, allowing the structure to knit and the aromatics to harmonize.

Food & Serving
The 2014 Pujanza Cisma pairs superbly with richly flavored dishes that can match its depth and structure: think slow-roasted lamb shoulder, charcoal-grilled ribeye, Iberian pork presa, game birds, or braised beef cheeks. It also works beautifully with aged Manchego, Ossau-Iraty, or other firm, nutty cheeses, as well as mushroom-based dishes and truffle-infused recipes. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) for optimal expression. Decanting is strongly recommended: give it 1–2 hours in a decanter to soften the tannins and fully open the aromatic profile, especially if enjoyed within the next few years.

Producer
Bodegas Pujanza is an independent, quality-focused estate based near Laguardia in Rioja Alavesa, a subregion celebrated for its altitude, limestone soils, and refined, ageworthy reds. Founded by Carlos San Pedro, whose winemaking roots run deep in the area, Pujanza was conceived as a terroir-driven project, emphasizing single-vineyard and site-specific wines long before it became fashionable in Rioja. By working exclusively with estate vineyards and old vines, the winery has established a reputation for precision, elegance, and longevity, standing out among the region’s modern benchmark producers. Cisma represents one of the pinnacle expressions of the estate—an emblematic bottling that showcases the singular character of its old-vine parcel and Pujanza’s dedication to articulating the nuances of Rioja Alavesa.

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