Hacienda el Ternero Rioja Reserva 2016

Hacienda el Ternero Rioja Reserva is a classic expression of high-altitude Rioja Alta, crafted on an historic estate perched at around 650 meters above sea level. This Reserva blends predominantly Tempranillo with a small proportion of Mazuelo to add structure and freshness, resulting in a wine that is both refined and deeply flavorful. Long barrel aging in carefully selected French oak gives it a polished, modern edge while still honoring the long-standing traditions of Rioja winemaking.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, this Rioja Reserva shows a beautiful, bright cherry-red color with almost violet reflections at the rim, hinting at both its concentration and vitality. The nose is generous and inviting, with layers of ripe blackberries, mulberries and stewed sour cherries, supported by subtle notes of dark plum. Gentle undertones of sweet baking spice, vanilla, cocoa and a touch of toasted wood round out the bouquet, giving a sense of depth and complexity. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with silky yet firm tannins that frame the fruit without overpowering it. Flavors of black and red berries mingle with hints of licorice, dark chocolate and a touch of dried herbs, reflecting the influence of French oak and extended maturation. The acidity is well-integrated, lending freshness and lift to the long, elegant finish. This Reserva is already drinking beautifully, but it has the structure and balance to continue evolving gracefully for another 6–8 years under good cellaring conditions.

Production
The vineyards of Hacienda el Ternero lie in Rioja Alta, a cooler, higher subzone known for its finesse and freshness, with vines planted around 650 meters above sea level. The estate’s roughly 60 hectares benefit from a combination of poor, well-drained soils and a climate influenced by both Atlantic and continental patterns, which encourages slow, balanced ripening. Grapes for this Reserva are harvested by hand to ensure careful selection of bunches. After picking, the must remains on the skins for up to 20 days to extract color, aroma and fine tannins. The wine then undergoes malolactic fermentation in a mix of new and second-use, specially toasted French oak barrels, followed by approximately 20 months of aging in those same barrels to achieve the depth, smoothness and complexity characteristic of a Rioja Reserva.

Food & Serving
This Rioja Reserva is a natural partner for roasted lamb, grilled or braised beef, and richly flavored pork dishes such as Iberico secreto or slow-cooked pork shoulder. It also pairs beautifully with hard cheeses like Manchego, aged Gouda, or mature Cheddar, as well as mushroom-based dishes and rustic stews. Serve at 16–18°C for optimal expression of fruit and spice. Decanting for about 45–60 minutes before serving helps the wine open up fully, softening the tannins and allowing the layered aromas to unfold.

Producer
Hacienda el Ternero is a historic estate in Rioja Alta, with roots that trace back several centuries as an agricultural and viticultural property. Its elevated position and distinct microclimate have long been prized for producing grapes of notable freshness and character. Today, the winery focuses on crafting expressive, terroir-driven Riojas that blend traditional methods, such as extended barrel aging, with a contemporary emphasis on precision and vineyard selection. Within the region, Hacienda el Ternero is recognized for its commitment to quality, careful vineyard management and its ability to deliver wines that consistently overperform for their classification and appellation.

We deliver within 2 - 6 business days. You can choose whether it should be to a parcel shop or home delivery. Free delivery to both parcel shops and your front door. Our store partners primarily use GLS, DPD, UPS and DHL for deliveries. We cover deliveries to the majority of countries in Europe.