Review: 2018 Bodegas Valdemar Conde Valdemar Crianza
With Father’s Day right around the bend, some fatherly types might indulge in a nice snifter of bourbon from Kentucky, a dram of from Islay, or just a plain old beer from the craft brewery or gas station around the corner. However, if you’re looking for something for the dad who likes a bit of red with their steak, this Crianza from Spain certainly puts the work in and does the job right. Harvested in Bodegas Valedmar’s vineyards in the Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Alta regions, it is constructed from 89% Tepranillo, 7% Mazuelo, and 4% Graciano grapes, and is aged 17 months in American oak.
Dense and jammy, waves of blueberry and blackberry interplay with one another while a hint of vanilla pulls up from below, courtesy of the oak aging. Light tannins and mild acidity amplifies the blackberry, but never allow it to dominate to a point where it resembles concentrated preserves. A nice touch of ginger and nutmeg appears on the lingering finish to complement the dark fruit and make this an easygoing glass ideal for zoning out, preferably after admiring some handiwork from the grill.
A- / $20 / valdemarfamily.com
2018 Bodegas Valdemar Conde Valdemar Crianza
$20
