The restaurant Asador Pasiego became the setting yesterday for one of those presentations where wine stops being just a drink and transforms into a narrative, a territory, and a gastronomic experience. The winery Hermanos Hernáiz chose the emblematic establishment in Zaragoza to present to journalists, influencers, and wine enthusiasts its most representative wine: Finca La Emperatriz tinto 2019.
A wine that Eduardo Hernáiz, co-owner of the winery and the technical head of production, described as “serious, gastronomic, powerful, and elegant, meant to be enjoyed around a good table.”
This event also served to reinforce the presence of the Rioja winery in Zaragoza, where it already collaborates with the distributor Disvinza, led by Tomás Olaso. However, the presentation was much more than a commercial action; it was a declaration of intent regarding the value of the unique vineyard and a claim for wines with identity.
The Weight of a Unique Vineyard
The history of Finca La Emperatriz dates back to the 19th century and is linked to Eugenia de Montijo, the last empress of France, after whom the estate is named. In 1996, the Hernáiz family acquired these vineyards located in the Oja Valley, one of the most prestigious areas of Rioja Alta, to develop a project focused on expressing the terroir.
“Great wines are those that can tell where they come from,” explained Hernáiz during the presentation. And precisely that philosophy defines this Finca La Emperatriz 2019, crafted from a classic Rioja blend consisting of 70% Tempranillo, 25% Garnacha, and 5% Viura, from vines that are over 65 years old.
Of particular interest is the presence of Garnacha, cultivated in one of the coldest areas of Rioja Alta, very different from the warmer, more Mediterranean profile of Aragonese Garnacha. According to the winemaker, this variety adds softness and breadth to the blend, while the small percentage of Viura introduces freshness and drinkability.
The wine also comes from one of the few Viñedos Singulares recognized by the D.O.Ca. Rioja, the highest qualitative category linked to the origin and age of the vineyard. Of the approximately 250 hectares cataloged under this designation across the entire denomination, 32 belong to the property of Hermanos Hernáiz.
A Wine for Aging, Complex and Evolving
During the tasting, Eduardo Hernáiz advocated for the historical concept of the “fine wines” of Rioja Alta: wines for aging, complex and elegant, with natural acidity and constant evolution in the glass.
This dynamic character was indeed one of the most highlighted aspects of the tasting. Finca La Emperatriz 2019 showcased different aromatic layers and profiles as the meal progressed, confirming its clearly gastronomic vocation.
The Asador Pasiego and the Dialogue Between Two Territories
The choice of Asador Pasiego was not coincidental. Ramón Olaso, the restaurant owner, described the establishment as “a project born from the connection between Aragon and the Valle del Pas.” Its motto — “the flavor of two lands on a grill” — summarizes a culinary proposal based on high-quality products, traditional cooking, and complete mastery of the grill.
The meal designed to accompany the wine was a demonstration of that philosophy. The menu started with a Santoña anchovy with vermouth vinegar spherification, followed by slightly spicy Burgos blood sausage and grilled longaniza from Épila. Next came white beans with ear before the central moment of the meal: aged Frisona beef rib and local beef chop, both grilled and accompanied by Piquillo peppers, salad, and potatoes.
The sweet finish was provided by two homemade cakes that capped off an experience designed to demonstrate that great wines also need great tables.
The presentation left a clear conclusion: Finca La Emperatriz 2019 does not seek immediate impact or the exuberant over-ripeness so common in some contemporary reds. Its intention is different: depth, balance, elegance, and the ability to evolve throughout a meal. A classic Rioja Alta in the best sense of the term.
