Rioja Uncorked: A Deep Dive into Spain’s Finest Reds

The Toronto Vintners Club’s May event began on a productive note, as members gathered for the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). The meeting was a resounding success, with members casting votes on several important club-related matters. With club business thoughtfully concluded, members turned their attention to what would become an extraordinary night of wine discovery—an immersive tasting of the bold, complex, and age-worthy wines of Rioja, Spain’s most prestigious wine region.

Before diving into Rioja’s celebrated reds, members and guests were welcomed with a stunning white wine: the Entrepeñas Viñedo Singular by Mitarte. This single-vineyard white Rioja delighted the crowd with bright citrus blossom, green apple, and white peach aromatics, complemented by herbal undertones and a whisper of toasted almond. On the palate, it showed wonderful texture and complexity. Zippy acidity balanced by a soft, creamy finish, setting the tone for the elegance and diversity Rioja has to offer.

The evening officially began with a presentation by Peter Wearing, wine educator and founder of Vin de Soif, a boutique wine agency in Toronto. Peter offered a vivid look at Rioja’s dynamic landscape—from the rolling vineyards of Rioja Alta, to the structured strength of Rioja Alavesa, and the ripe, sun-drenched character of Rioja Oriental. He dove into the heart of Rioja winemaking: Tempranillo, Spain’s noble grape, often blended with Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo. Members and guests learned about how aging in American versus French oak influences the wine’s structure and flavour, and how both traditional and modern producers are innovating within Rioja’s deeply rooted winemaking heritage.

The tasting portion of the night featured a thoughtfully curated lineup of Reserva and Gran Reserva wines, offering an in-depth exploration of Rioja’s age-worthy styles. Each wine showcased Rioja’s signature balance of fruit, structure, and oak influence:

• 2016 Torre Muga Reserva – Bold yet harmonious with ripe dark fruits and integrated oak.

• 2008 Viña Tondonia Reserva – Elegant and herbal, with classic Rioja freshness and nuance.

• 2012 Cune Gran Reserva – Sleek and iron-tinged, with savory undertones and polished tannins.

• 2012 Coto de Imaz Gran Reserva – Deep and dramatic, featuring dark fruit, spice, and power.

• 2013 Remelluri Reserva – Herbal and vibrant, with firm, food-friendly tannins.

• 2009 Viña Tondonia “Bosconia” Reserva – Earthy and refined, with black fruit and toasty character.

• 2012 La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva – Graceful and velvety, with notes of spice and red cherry.

After much swirling, sipping, and engaging discussion, the standout wine of the evening was clear: 2010 Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial. From one of Rioja’s most iconic producers, this exceptional vintage, a blend of Tempranillo and 15% Mazuelo—was the unanimous group favourite. With aromas of black cherry, dried roses, cedar, and tobacco, it offered a complex and luxurious bouquet. The palate delivered layers of blackcurrant, plum, clove, and leather, supported by silky tannins and a finish that lingered long after the last sip. Aged for 26 months in oak and hailed as one of the finest vintages in recent history, it perfectly encapsulated the elegance and aging potential of top-tier Rioja.

The evening included a selection of delicious appetizers, perfectly paired to highlight the structure and flavours of the wines. Conversations flowed, insights were shared, and members left with a deeper appreciation of Rioja’s diversity, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal.

Whether a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, every member and guest walked away with a new favourite and a renewed admiration for Spanish wine. The Toronto Vintners Club once again delivered a night of discovery, community, and exceptional wine. Salud!