# Gran Reserva (2017)

- **Producer:** Baron de Ley
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Graciano
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €30
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, mint, black cherry, vanilla, chocolate, cedar, cloves, leather, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Baron de Ley Gran Reserva 2017 is a red wine from Rioja DOCa, Spain, produced by Bodegas Baron de Ley. Primarily crafted from Tempranillo with a touch of Graciano, it represents a commitment to traditional winemaking. The estate, founded in 1985 within a historic monastery, aims to produce premium, estate-grown wines. The name 'de ley' reflects their dedication to authenticity and quality. The 2017 vintage was influenced by dry, hot weather, resulting in concentrated grapes and wines with significant aging potential.

## Interesting facts

- Founded in a 16th-century monastery.
- Name 'de ley' means 'legit' in Spanish.
- Exports 85% of its production globally.
- This wine is vegan-friendly.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and fine-grained tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, such as lamb and beef. The wine's structure can cut through fattier cuts, while its subtle oak notes can harmonize with roasted or grilled flavors. Earthy notes often found in Rioja can echo the flavors of mushrooms and game.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Baron de Ley Gran Reserva 2017 begins with hand-harvested and selected grapes. Fermentation takes place at controlled temperatures (around 30ºC) with daily pumping over to enhance extraction. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 24 months in American and French oak barrels, followed by at least 36 months of bottle aging before its release. This meticulous aging regimen is central to developing the wine's characteristic complexity and structure.