Wine feature on José Pariente, Victoria Rosado, D.O. Rueda
You well wonder if the Bruja has something against Pink that stops Rose wines appearing in this column. We assure it is not case, the Bruja reviews wines of all shades, but only recommends wines the Bruja likes, and being somewhat fussy only top Roses make it here. And here is one that will not disappoint, it will appeal to white as well as red lovers, well worth the slightly above average price tag. Those keen on Roses will find it exceptional.
D.O. Rueda wine region, in Castilla y León, spanning the provinces of Valladolid, Segovia, and Ávila is a high-altitude area at 600 to 800, with well-drained, gravelly soils. The high altitude contributes to a continental climate with significant temperature variations between day and night, helping to preserve the acidity and aromatic qualities of the grapes. These gravelly soils often contain limestone and clay, which contribute to the minerality. The region is most renowned for its Verdejo whites. Bodegas José Pariente was founded by José Pariente in the 1960s, and continues to be family run. It specialises in quality whites and Victoria is their first Rose, named after José Pariente’s daughter.
Victoria Rosado is made from three grape varieties, the reds Garnacha and Tempranillo, planted in the 1940s and 1960s, respectively, and the French white variety Viognier, planted late in the 1990s.
The wine is clear, pale very elegant salmon pink, somewhat subtle and understated, certainly understating the intense bouquet that presents at the nose. It shouts raspberry from a mile, with tones of strawberry and Pomegranate. The floral contribution of Viognier is evident with notes of rose petal and Jasmin. In the mouth, lively, fresh, fruity, with robust acidity and elegant light tannins. Persistent and versatile. A very elegant wine in form and in character.
We had it chilled with seafood paella, can also have it with simply grilled vegetables, fish or chicken, with salades and mild cheeses, or simply on its own. Delicious!
94 – 96 Bruja points; 11-15 EUR, at 11€ from https://www.vinoscutanda.com/