Introduction:
The 2018 Bodegas Hermanos Pecina “Señorío de P. Pecina” Crianza (Rioja Alta) is a classic Rioja Crianza that bridges traditional styling with expressive fruit. Its blend of age and freshness makes it a versatile choice for both immediate enjoyment and modest cellaring.

Terroir:
Vineyards are located in San Vicente de la Sonsierra, in the Rioja Alta subregion. Soils are calcareous clay with large pebbles and stones, especially in the El Codo parcel. The elevation—close to the Sierra Cantabria foothills—provides cooling breezes and diurnal variation that preserve acidity and aromatics.

Appearance:
Cherry-red with subtle orange rim and good clarity. Medium depth, showing mature youthful vinosity.

Nose:
Aromas of ripe red and black cherries, strawberry compote, and plum, layered with cedar, tobacco leaf, vanilla, and subtle spice. Hints of dried herbs and earthy undertones appear with aeration.

Palate:
Medium-bodied and balanced. Fresh cherry, red plum, and cassis are supported by fine-grained tannins. Oak aging shows through as cedar, toast, and a spice measure, but it remains in harmony with the fruit. The wine retains good acidity, bringing lift and structure.

Finish:
Long and elegant. Fruit echoes linger—red cherry and plum—alongside cedar, dried herbs, and subtle mineral tension. The finish is dry, with a graceful grip from the tannins that plays nicely with the wine’s age.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Meat dish: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary, roasted pork loin with garlic, or beef short ribs in red sauce

• Vegetarian option: Mushroom and lentil ragù over polenta or roasted eggplant terrine with herbs

• Cheese pairing: Aged Manchego, Idiazabal, or semi-firm sheep’s milk cheese—cheeses with enough character to match the structure

Overall Impression:
The 2018 Pecina Crianza is a beautifully calibrated Rioja: fruit-forward yet grounded, with oak spice integration, savory complexity, and a well-rounded structure. It is drinking well now with decanting but will continue to evolve over 5–8 more years, developing tertiary notes of earth, leather, and dried spices.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.6%
Farming Practices: Estate vineyards; practicing organic / sustainable vineyard methods
Producer Name: Bodegas Hermanos Pecina
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Spain
Region: Rioja Alta, Rioja (DOCa)
Grape Varietals: 95% Tempranillo, 3% Graciano, 2% Garnacha
Vintage: 2018
Wine Style: Dry red; Rioja Crianza; balanced with fruit, oak, and structure
Winemaking Techniques: Wild yeast fermentation in stainless steel; aged in used American oak for ~2 years with periodic racking; bottled unfined and unfiltered
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Standard Bordeaux-style glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork