‘Varietal de Ondarre’ Mazuelo (Rioja)

Varietal de Ondarre Mazuelo by Grupo Olarra is an interesting wine that uses 100% Mazuelo grapes. This interesting grape has been grown in the Rioja valley for hundreds of years, but barely covers 3% of grapes used in the region. This variety is a great contrast to Tempranillo which is bold and flavorful. It can also be consumed right away. Mazuelo wines do well from extra time aging the wine as the grape itself needs longer periods to fully develop.

Varietal de Ondarre Mazuelo is a beautiful wine with medium tannins and high acidity. It is refreshing for both the soul and the palate. It is dry with a well-balanced boldness that is common in the region. To the eye: lively, intense reds greet the eye with purple notes thrown in for good measure. On the nose: thoughts of flowers and red fruits dominate the scent, with notes of gingerbread wafting through. On the palate: bold and complex, notes of red fruits and berries shine through, like red currant and dried cherries. It is oakey thanks to the barrels in which it was aged. This is one of the first vineyards making a 100% Mazuelo and exporting it to the U.S.!