2018 Casado Morales Alonso López de Familia Rioja Crianza

Rioja is arguably Spains most important and well-established wine region. Produced from Spains most well-know varieties, Tempranillo and Grenache (sometimes Mazuelo and Graciano), Rioja wines are known for their age ability, structure, along with their ability to express fruit and oak in perfect harmony. Rioja has strict aging requirements for its four different classifications: Rioja, Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva. Traditionally produced with American Oak these wines are well structured with an ample amount of oak influence. French Oak is less common but is used to create a lighter and more elegant expression. Rioja wines offer great value for lovers of Bordeaux and California Cabernet.

Bodegas Casado Morales has been crafting exceptional Rioja wines for nearly a century, combining tradition with meticulous vineyard care. Their 2018 Alonso Lopez de Familia Crianza is a pure expression of Rioja Alavesa terroir. Made from Tempranillo and other local varieties, it undergoes carbonic maceration, a method that enhances its fresh, fruit-forward character while maintaining elegance and depth.

La Rioja Alavesa’s continental climate provides warm days and cool nights, creating ideal conditions for slow, balanced ripening. Vineyards sit between 400 and 580 meters above sea level, where the rocky, well-draining soils—a mix of clay, iron, and alluvial components—add structure and minerality to the wine. The surrounding mountains protect the vines from harsh winds, ensuring consistency from vintage to vintage.

Casado Morales embraces both tradition and innovation. The whole grape clusters are fermented at carefully controlled temperatures, never exceeding 30°C, to preserve their bright aromatics. After fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation, which softens acidity and enhances its velvety texture.

95% Tempranillo, 5% other local varieties. Deep violet in color with bluish reflections, this wine is fresh and vibrant from the first pour. The nose is intensely perfumed, with layers of blackberries, wild berries, and floral notes, followed by a touch of spice. On the palate, it’s juicy and full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins and a lively, almost tart fruitiness that adds freshness and depth.

This Rioja is a perfect match for roasted meats and game, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, aged cheeses, and hearty stews. Bright acidity and structured tannins make it a versatile choice for bold, savory dishes.

This dark-garnet-colored wine offers a bouquet of black currant, anisette, and sage. Blackberry, cassis, dark-chocolate, violet, and clove flavors are joined by a note of marjoram. Tannins start out feather-light, slowly fill the palate, and linger for a while. ~ 94 Wine Enthusiast

Dusty blackberries with some blue fruit, stones and spices. Nicely chewy and tight on the full-bodied palate, loaded with fine-grained tannins and juicy, almost tart fruit. Drink in 2023. ~90 James Suckling

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