From: Rioja, Spain
Varietal: Tempranillo, Viura
Taste: The nose brims with the vibrancy of freshly picked red fruits: ripe strawberries lend a juicy sweetness, while cherries and raspberries add layers of tartness and brightness. This fruit-forward profile is balanced by subtle lactic notes, akin to a delicate creaminess, which rounds out the aromas without overpowering the purity of the fruit. As the wine opens up in the glass, faint hints of wild herbs and a touch of crushed stone might emerge, hinting at the vineyard’s mineral-rich soils and adding complexity to the aromatic profile.
On the palate, the wine’s youthful character is immediately apparent. It’s light-bodied yet expressive, with a soft entry that unfolds into a lively medley of red berry flavors. The strawberries from the nose come forward with a pleasant juiciness, while the cherry and raspberry flavors add a tangy snap, creating a balance between sweetness and acidity. The texture is smooth, aided by a gentle acidity that lifts the wine and enhances its freshness. As it moves across the palate, subtle mineral undertones and a whisper of earthiness lend a sense of place, grounding the fruitiness with a slight savory edge. The finish is clean and gratifying, leaving a lingering impression of bright fruit and refreshing acidity.
Pairing: For Spanish cuisine, try it with Patatas Bravas, where the wine’s bright red fruit perfectly balances the spicy tomato sauce and creamy aioli, or enjoy it alongside a Jamón Ibérico and Manchego Cheese Plate, where the savory and nutty elements accentuate the wine’s fruitiness and mineral undertones. Another classic choice is Chorizo a la Sidra; the smoky and slightly spicy chorizo finds harmony in the wine’s berry notes, while the cider’s acidity matches the wine’s fresh character.
Oven-Fried Patatas Bravas (Crispy Potatoes With Two Sauces)
By David Tanis
About: La Bicicleta Voladora is a wine project initiated by winemaker Germán R. Blanco in the Rioja region of Spain. Blanco, known for his other ventures, such as Quinta Milú in Ribera del Duero and Casa Aurora in Bierzo, embarked on this Rioja-based endeavor with the first harvest in 2015.
The project operates in the Navarrese part of the D.O.Ca. Rioja, specifically in Rioja Oriental. Blanco collaborates with his friend and experienced Navarran winemaker, Javier Colio, leveraging Colio's intimate knowledge of the region. They source grapes from organically certified vineyards, working closely with grape growers who meet their quality criteria.
