In the heart of Rioja Alta, in the picturesque town of Briones, lies Vivanco – a winery where wine is far more than a drink. It is a passion, an art form and, perhaps, a healthy family obsession.
While most wineries might be satisfied with stainless-steel tanks and barrel rooms, the Vivanco family went much further, creating one of the world’s most impressive museums dedicated to wine culture.
Their philosophy, “giving back to wine what wine has given us,” can be felt throughout the estate – from its remarkable archaeological and cultural collections to an experimental vineyard featuring hundreds of grape varieties from around the world.
Vivanco – Where Rioja Tradition Meets Innovation
Under the direction of winemaker Rafael Vivanco, the winery has successfully built a bridge between classical Rioja and a fresher, more contemporary approach to winemaking.
The wines are characterized by impressive precision while maintaining a deep respect for the distinctive terroir of the region. Modern winemaking techniques are combined with traditional practices, including fermentation in large French oak vats.
The result is a style that respects Rioja’s history without becoming trapped by it – wines that express both their origins and a distinctly modern sense of clarity and balance.
Colección Vivanco 4 Varietales – Four Grapes, One Rioja
The prestigious Colección Vivanco 4 Varietales is a statement of intent in a bottle.
The wine brings together Rioja’s four classic red grape varieties – Tempranillo, Graciano, Garnacha and Mazuelo – sourced from selected vineyard parcels.
Its color is a mesmerizing deep crimson, almost opaque, with purple reflections around the rim suggesting impressive aging potential.
The nose is highly complex. Intense aromas of ripe dark berries and black cherry are accompanied by subtle balsamic notes. As the wine opens in the glass, layers of tobacco, leather and sweet spices emerge, complemented by a cool graphite-like minerality.
Power, Freshness and Complexity
The first sip reveals a wine of considerable power, yet its intensity is delivered with remarkable finesse.
The structure is firm and the tannins are beautifully integrated, creating a rich, velvety sensation across the palate. Excellent acidity keeps the wine vibrant and refreshing despite its concentrated fruit character.
The finish is exceptionally long, leaving lingering notes of dark chocolate, coffee and baking spices.
This is a wine that rewards patience. Give it time in a good decanter and allow its layers to unfold gradually in the glass.
And for the complete experience? A serious cut of grilled or roasted meat alongside it would certainly not go amiss.
Colección Vivanco 4 Varietales captures the essence of contemporary Rioja: deeply rooted in tradition, yet confident enough to look firmly toward the future.
