# Ramón Bilbao Crianza (2019)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Ramón Bilbao
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €15
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, black cherry, black plum, liquorice, cloves, vanilla

## About this wine

The Ramón Bilbao Crianza 2019 is a red wine from Bodegas Ramón Bilbao, a producer with a history dating back to 1924. This wine hails from the D.O.Ca. Rioja region in Spain, a prestigious appellation known for its Tempranillo wines. Bodegas Ramón Bilbao, under the guidance of winemaker Rodolfo Bastida, aims to produce wines with a fresh, elegant, and fruit-forward character. The 2019 vintage benefited from warm, dry conditions, contributing to its profile. The wine is recognized for its balance and approachability, making it a popular choice.

## Interesting facts

- Ramón Bilbao Crianza is a consistent favorite, often found on restaurant wine lists.
- The winery was recognized as 'Best Spanish Winery' in 2014.
- The 2019 vintage received 91 points from the influential Peñín Guide.
- Winemaker Rodolfo Bastida is known for modernizing Rioja's style.

## Food pairing

The medium body and smooth tannins of the Ramón Bilbao Crianza complement the protein in red meats and lamb, while its fruit-forward character can stand up to richer flavors. Its balanced acidity helps to cut through fattier dishes, and subtle oak notes can harmonize with roasted or grilled preparations.

## Wine making process

The Ramón Bilbao Crianza 2019 is produced from 100% Tempranillo grapes sourced from various plots across the Rioja region. The grapes are hand-harvested and fermented separately in controlled temperature vats (28-29ºC). Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 14 months in American oak barrels, followed by bottle aging. This process is designed to highlight the fruit while integrating subtle oak influences.