Carme Reserva: the mature and elegant expression of Ribera del Duero
Carme Reserva represents the perfect balance between the winemaking tradition of the Ribera del Duero Denomination of Origin and the modern interpretation of an aged wine that remains true to its fruity soul. Produced by Bodega Vitivinícola de Valbuena, this wine embodies the essence of Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) at its finest, showcasing a firm, elegant, and profound personality.
The Winery in Valbuena de Duero has more than a hundred years of history. The wine made by the family was originally for their own consumption, and only the surplus was sold to neighbours.
Each bottle of Carme Reserva preserves a piece of the Castilian landscape, with its extreme climate contrasts, dry winds, and cool nights that slow the ripening of the grapes, resulting in fruit that is concentrated, fresh, and long-lived.
A 100% Tinto Fino wine with authentic roots
This Carme Reserva is made exclusively from 100% Tinto Fino grapes from vineyards over 25 years old. The bush-trained vines, with controlled yields, produce medium-sized clusters with thick skins and slow ripening. This natural selection gives rise to wines with firm body, ripe tannins, and balanced acidity that ensures a long life in the bottle.
At Bodega de Valbuena, respect for the land is a core principle. Viticulture is carried out using sustainable practices, limiting aggressive treatments and promoting the biodiversity of the environment. This commitment to authenticity is reflected in every glass: Carme Reserva does not seek to impress with artifice but to honestly convey the character of its origin.
Extended ageing in oak and bottle refinement
The ageing of Carme Reserva combines technical precision with time as its ally. The wine rests for 18 months in Bordeaux-style barrels of French and American oak, a process that imparts notes of vanilla, cocoa, gentle spices, and a subtle smokiness perfectly integrated with the fruit. After barrel ageing, the wine continues to mature in the bottle, where it softens and achieves the harmony that defines it.
The result is a wine of great depth, with layers that unfold gradually. On the palate, it shows structure, elegance, and a balance that invites you to keep drinking. Its long, persistent finish reflects the patient, meticulous work behind each vintage. At Licorea, we believe this Reserva wine embodies a clear philosophy: respect for time and origin as the pillars of quality.
Ribera del Duero as inspiration
The Ribera del Duero D.O. is one of the most emblematic wine regions in Spain. Its combination of altitude, continental climate, and diverse soils has enabled the creation of red wines with a distinctive personality. Carme Reserva is born in this privileged setting, where the contrast between day and night encourages slow ripening, preserving fresh aromas and polished tannins.
This Ribera identity can be felt in every sip. It is a wine that speaks of the landscape, of limestone soils, and of the dry air of Castile. It doesn’t try to imitate others, and that makes it unique. For lovers of Reserva red wines who value authenticity over trends, this Carme Reserva is a sincere, solid proposal—capable of moving without artifice.
Food pairing and ideal moments
Carme Reserva is a versatile wine, designed to accompany moments of unhurried enjoyment. Its structure and balance make it the perfect partner for hearty dishes such as stews or traditional casseroles, as well as red meats, game, and oven roasts. It also pairs beautifully with Ibérico cured meats and aged cheeses, where its mature, serious character enhances flavours.
At Licorea, we recommend it as a wine for celebrations but also as a personal choice for those who enjoy a quiet glass at the end of the day. Its evolution in the glass invites discovery, revealing new nuances with each sip and showcasing its silky texture and natural balance.
Carme Reserva, a discreet jewel of Ribera del Duero
What sets Carme Reserva apart is not only its ageing or origin, but its soul. It is a wine made with time, patience, and respect. Every detail—from the hand selection of clusters to the balanced use of oak—contributes to a final result that reflects mastery and sensitivity. Its ageing potential makes it a safe choice for those who appreciate the evolution of a great red wine over time.
At Licorea.com, we have selected this Reserva red wine for its balance between power and elegance. We believe that lovers of Ribera del Duero will find in it a distinctive interpretation of the region—more thoughtful, deeper. This Carme Reserva is a discreet gem, meant to be enjoyed slowly, allowing its story to unfold gradually in each glass.
A wine to remember
Carme Reserva stands out not only for its quality but also for its honesty. It is a wine that does not seek to dazzle but to endure, reminding us why Ribera del Duero remains one of the most admired wine regions in the world. Its balance, texture, and purity are a testament to a winemaking philosophy that respects the past while looking toward the future.
At Licorea, we consider it a wine with soul—perfect for those who appreciate detail and the quiet passage of time. A reference that, vintage after vintage, reaffirms the commitment of great Spanish wines to excellence and authenticity.
