# Viña Pomal Reserva (2016)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Bilbaínas
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €19
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, ripe cherry, dried sage, blackcurrant, red plum, cassis, cloves, cedar, vanilla, earth, leather, wet leaves, forest floor

## About this wine

Viña Pomal Reserva is a red wine from Bodegas Bilbaínas, a historic winery founded in 1901 and the oldest bottling winery in Rioja. The wine originates from the Rioja Alta sub-region, with vineyards situated in Haro overlooking the Ebro River. Viña Pomal, the winery's flagship brand since 1904, embodies traditional Rioja winemaking. The 2016 vintage is characterized by its garnet color and ruby-red rim, reflecting a balanced integration of fruit, spice, and oak.

## Interesting facts

- Bodegas Bilbaínas is the oldest bottling winery in Rioja.
- Viña Pomal is the flagship brand, with a history dating back to 1904.
- The winery owns the largest vineyard area in the municipality of Haro.
- The 2016 vintage may have special labeling for the winery's 100-year anniversary.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and supple tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game. The subtle oak influence and fruit notes can harmonize with herbs and earthy flavors found in many traditional Spanish and European dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Viña Pomal Reserva begins with destemming and crushing the grapes, followed by a moderately long maceration. Alcoholic and malolactic fermentations are carried out, after which the wine is racked and lightly clarified. Aging takes place for 18 months in American oak barrels, with 20% new oak, followed by a minimum of two years of bottle aging before release. The viticulture combines traditional Rioja practices with precision winegrowing techniques, emphasizing environmentally friendly methods.