Hacienda el Ternero Rioja Crianza Selección Especial 2018

Hacienda El Ternero Rioja Crianza Selección Especial 2018 is a refined expression of high-altitude Tempranillo from one of Spain’s most celebrated wine regions. Medium-bodied rather than heavy, it combines ripe red-fruit character with delicate floral notes, subtle oak and the freshness typical of Rioja’s elevated vineyards. A polished Crianza with the structure and complexity to stand out in its category.

Tasting Notes
The wine presents a bright ruby-red colour. Its nose is lifted and expressive, revealing violets and cherry blossom over ripe red berries and cherries, with discreet hints of sweet spice and oak. On the palate, sour cherry takes centre stage, supported by a balanced freshness and smooth, integrated tannins. Subtle notes of caramel and bitter almond add depth, while the French oak remains pleasantly in the background rather than dominating the fruit. Medium-bodied and elegant, this is a Rioja designed for enjoyment now, with the structure to develop further over the next few years if stored in good conditions.

Production
The Tempranillo grapes are sourced from Hacienda El Ternero’s high-altitude vineyards, located at an average of around 650 metres above sea level in northern Rioja. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an extended maceration to encourage full extraction of the variety’s aromas and colour. It is then matured for at least 16 months in French oak barriques, followed by a further year of bottle ageing before release, allowing the fruit, oak and tannins to harmonise.

Food & Serving
Serve lightly cool at approximately 16–18°C. This Crianza pairs particularly well with roast lamb, grilled or braised beef, pork, mushroom dishes and traditional Spanish fare such as chorizo or patatas a la riojana. Decanting is not essential, but opening the bottle 30–60 minutes before serving can help the floral aromas and ripe fruit emerge more fully.

Producer
Hacienda El Ternero is situated in the elevated Rioja landscape of northern Spain, where altitude helps preserve freshness and aromatic definition in Tempranillo. The estate’s Crianza Selección Especial reflects a style of Rioja that balances ripe fruit with measured oak ageing, offering more depth than a young Rioja while remaining fresher and more approachable than a Reserva or Gran Reserva.

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