# Faustino V Reserva

- **Producer:** Bodegas Faustino
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Mazuelo
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** ripe red fruit, black fruit, ripe black fruit, vanilla, cloves, cedar, leather, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Faustino V Reserva is a distinguished red wine from Bodegas Faustino, a family winery established in 1861 and now in its sixth generation. Produced in the DOCa Rioja, specifically the Rioja Alavesa sub-region, it is primarily made from Tempranillo with a touch of Mazuelo. The winery's philosophy emphasizes patience and respect for nature, blending tradition with technology. A unique aspect is the iconic bottle design, featuring a Rembrandt portrait, which has become a symbol of Rioja excellence. The wine often undergoes extended aging in American oak barrels and bottle, exceeding the minimum requirements for a Rioja Reserva, contributing to its classic character and consistency.

## Interesting facts

- The iconic Faustino bottle features a portrait by Rembrandt.
- Faustino V Reserva often spends double the minimum required time in oak barrels.
- The winery owns 650 hectares of vineyards, ensuring grape self-sufficiency.
- Bodegas Faustino is certified 'Sustainable Wineries for Climate Protection'.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus tannins and body are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in red meats and aged cheeses. Its bright acidity cuts through richness, while the oak-derived notes of spice and vanilla can echo or contrast with herbs and savory elements in dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Faustino V Reserva begins with fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures for approximately 10 days, followed by about 20 days of maceration with the skins. A key aspect is the extensive aging: a minimum of 16 to 24 months in American oak barrels, often exceeding standard requirements, followed by at least 12 to 24 months of bottle aging. This extended maturation period is crucial to the wine's development and characteristic profile. The grapes are sourced from vineyards in the Oyón area of Rioja Alavesa, known for its calcareous and clay soils.