Faustino V and Faustino VII are two different wines produced by Bodegas Faustino, a renowned winery in the Rioja region of Spain. Faustino V is a Reserva, while Faustino VII is a Crianza. These terms indicate the level of quality and aging that the wines have undergone.
Firstly, let's focus on Faustino V. As a Reserva, it signifies that the grapes used in its production are of superior quality compared to Faustino VII. This means that the winery carefully selects the best grapes from their vineyards, resulting in a wine with more complexity and depth.
In terms of aging, Faustino V is aged for 16 months in American oak barrels. This extended period of aging allows the wine to develop nuanced flavors and aromas from the oak, such as vanilla, spice, and toasted notes. The oak also imparts a smooth and velvety texture to the wine.
After the oak aging, Faustino V undergoes further bottle aging before being released to the market. This additional aging in the bottle allows the wine to further evolve and integrate its flavors, resulting in a more harmonious and balanced wine.
On the other hand, Faustino VII, as a Crianza, undergoes a shorter aging process. It is aged for a minimum of 12 months, with at least 6 months in oak barrels. This means that it spends less time in oak compared to Faustino V, resulting in a less pronounced oak influence in terms of flavors and aromas.
The shorter aging period of Faustino VII also means that it is released to the market at a younger stage compared to Faustino V. While it still offers enjoyable characteristics, it may not have the same complexity and depth as its Reserva counterpart.
In terms of taste, Faustino V is known for its rich and concentrated flavors. It typically exhibits ripe dark fruit flavors such as blackberry, plum, and cherry, along with hints of vanilla, spice, and tobacco. The tannins are usually well-integrated, providing structure and a long finish.
Faustino VII, on the other hand, is often described as more approachable and fruit-forward. It showcases vibrant red fruit flavors like raspberry and strawberry, with lighter oak influence and softer tannins.
Both Faustino V and Faustino VII are excellent wines in their own right, catering to different preferences and occasions. The Reserva Faustino V is ideal for those who appreciate a more complex and age-worthy wine, while the Crianza Faustino VII offers a more accessible and easy-drinking option.
The key differences between Faustino V and Faustino VII lie in the quality of grapes used, the duration of aging, and the resulting flavor profiles. It's always a great idea to explore and compare different wines to discover your personal preferences and enjoy the diversity of the Rioja region.