Description

The Fifth Cross Mazuelo | DO Rioja, Spain

La Quinta Cruz Mazuelo is one of Rioja’s most distinctive and limited-production wines, crafted by Bodegas Miguel Merino in Rioja Alta from 100% Mazuelo (Carignan) — a variety traditionally used only in small percentages in Rioja blends but rarely bottled on its own.

The grapes come from old vineyards around Briones , where Atlantic influence, limestone-rich soils and altitude help preserve freshness and aromatic complexity. Miguel Merino’s aim with this wine is to showcase the true personality of Mazuelo: vibrant, spicy, elegant and remarkably age-worthy. ( miguelmerino.com )

Following fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, allowing the naturally firm structure and lively acidity of Mazuelo to integrate with subtle spice and texture while preserving freshness and precision.

On the nose, La Quinta Cruz reveals aromas of black cherry, wild blackberry, violets, cracked pepper and Mediterranean herbs layered with hints of cedar, graphite and delicate spice. The palate is fresh, vibrant and beautifully structured, with silky tannins, energetic acidity and a long mineral finish.

Elegant rather than heavy, this is a Rioja for lovers of freshness, terroir and rare indigenous expressions — a wine that feels both classic and quietly rebellious within the Rioja landscape.

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🍇 Key Details

• Region: DOCa. Rioja (Spain)
• Classification: Red Wine
• Grape: 100% Mazuelo
• Aging: Aged for 12 month in concrete tank and 3 month in French oak barrels
• Alcohol: 14% Vol.
• Style: Elegant, fresh, structured
• Serving Temperature: 15–17°C
• Contains Sulfites

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🍷 Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby ​​red with violet reflections
• Aroma: Black cherry, blackberry, violets, cracked pepper and cedar
• Palate: Fresh and vibrant with silky tannins, mineral tension and refined spice

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🍽 Food Pairing

• Roast lamb
• Grilled ribeye steak
• Game dishes
• Mushroom risotto
• Mature cheeses

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💎 Why We Love It

A rare opportunity to experience Mazuelo as the star of the show — fresh, elegant and unlike almost any other Rioja.

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About the Producer

Bodegas Miguel Merino is a boutique family winery located in Briones , in the heart of Rioja Alta . Founded in 1994 by Miguel Merino Sr., the winery has become highly respected for producing elegant, terroir-driven Rioja wines with exceptional precision and authenticity.

Today the estate is led by Miguel Merino Jr. , continuing the family philosophy of small-scale production focused on vineyard expression, balance and restrained winemaking. The winery works with old vineyards around Briones, many planted on limestone and red clay soils that contribute freshness, minerality and aging potential.

Rather than following heavily oaked or overly extracted styles, Bodegas Miguel Merino focuses on finesse, purity and regional identity. Their wines often highlight lesser-used Rioja varieties and single-vineyard expressions, helping showcase the diversity and elegance possible within Rioja Alta.

La Quinta Cruz Mazuelo perfectly reflects this philosophy — a rare and characterful Rioja that combines freshness, structure and authenticity with remarkable elegance.

Explore more in our Red wine collection.