The Hernáiz Brothers’ two most emblematic Rioja Alta Reservas, Finca La Emperatriz Tinto and Finca La Emperatriz Blanco, arrive with their fourth edition (Vintage 2019) in style: garnering the DOCa Rioja ‘Viñedo Singular’ distinction as well as excellent ratings from wine critics.
These are two of the winery’s great wines, the result of the blending of carefully selected grapes from the oldest vineyards on the estate which, in addition to Viñedo Singular, are certified as organic vineyards thanks to the sustainable viticulture practices used at Finca La Emperatriz. This extraordinary plot, located in the confines of Rioja Alta (Baños de Rioja), is home to goblet-trained vineyards with an average age of 65 years, growing on an impressive terroir with a layer of large white pebbles about 40 cm deep, on a loose, sandy subsoil.
2019 was a vintage in Rioja that could be described as exemplary for the area, in terms of temperatures and rainfall. This resulted in exceptional grape quality and wines with great ageing potential.
The new 2019 vintage of Finca la Emperatriz Blanco y Tinto is launched on the market after its long ageing in oak barrels and with the DOCa Rioja ‘Viñedo Singular’ distinction of excellence, the result of a memorable vintage
Finca La Emperatriz Tinto 20019
A blend of 71% tempranillo, with 25% garnacha and a small percentage of viura. The fusion of these three varieties fermented and aged for 18 months in oak barrels results in a deep, complex, well-structured wine with polished tannins, ready to drink and at the same time with plenty of time in the bottle. A classic and elegant Rioja, with notes of dark berries and red fruits, and aromas of cocoa and spices. Full-bodied palate, and a long, refined finish.
Finca La Emperatriz Blanco 20019
100% viura from the oldest vines on the estate, like its red brother. It is fine, elegant and with a subtle touch of ageing, but with enough robustness to mature in the bottle. The nose is light yet complex, with hints of macadamia nuts and lemon tart, combined with notes of jasmine and honeysuckle. The palate is creamy with a saline touch, all accompanied by a good structure.
Excellent reviews from critics
The new 2019 vintage of Finca la Emperatriz Blanco y Tinto is launched on the market after its long ageing in oak barrels and as ‘Viñedo Singular’ distinction of excellence, the result of a memorable vintage. A criterion of excellence that seems to be shared by the specialised critics, if we consider the 95 points awarded to the Finca La Emperatriz Blanco 2019 by Tim Atkin and the Guía Vinos Gourmets 2025, or the 94 points awarded by Robert Parker. Finca La Emperatriz Tinto 2019 is not far behind, with 94 points from Atkin and also 94 from Parker.
