How do you drink Campo Viejo wine?

Answered by Ricardo McCardle

When it comes to drinking Campo Viejo wine, there are a few key factors to consider in order to fully appreciate its taste and aroma. The first and perhaps most important aspect is the temperature at which the wine is served. While many of us are accustomed to drinking red wine at room temperature, Campo Viejo’s experts suggest that it is best enjoyed at a slightly cooler temperature of around 16-17 degrees Celsius.

Serving wine at the optimum temperature allows for the full expression of its aromas and flavors. When a wine is too warm, the alcohol can overpower the other characteristics, making it difficult to fully appreciate the nuances of the wine. On the other hand, serving it too cold can mute the flavors and aromas, preventing them from fully developing. Therefore, finding the right balance is crucial.

To achieve the recommended temperature for Campo Viejo wine, there are a few methods you can try. One simple method is to place the bottle in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This will help to cool the wine to the desired temperature. If you prefer a quicker method, you can also place the bottle in an ice bucket filled with ice and water for about 15 minutes. Just be sure not to leave it in the refrigerator or ice bucket for too long, as this can cause the wine to become too cold.

Once the wine has reached the ideal temperature, it is time to pour and savor it. Start by selecting a suitable glass, preferably one with a large bowl that allows for the wine to breathe and release its aromas. Pour a moderate amount of wine into the glass, filling it to about one-third of its capacity. This will give the wine enough room to swirl and release its aromas.

Before taking your first sip, take a moment to observe the wine’s appearance. Hold the glass up to the light and take note of its color and clarity. Campo Viejo wines are known for their vibrant hues, so pay attention to the shades of red or purple that you can see.

Next, bring the glass to your nose and take a deep breath. Inhale the aromas that emanate from the wine. Campo Viejo wines often exhibit fruity and floral notes, so you may detect scents of ripe berries, cherries, or even hints of vanilla or spice. Take your time to fully appreciate the complexity of the aromas.

After you have taken in the wine’s aromas, it is finally time to take a sip. Allow the wine to coat your palate and take note of the flavors that come through. Campo Viejo wines are known for their balanced and smooth taste, with a combination of fruit flavors and subtle oak influences. You may detect flavors of red berries, plums, or even a touch of chocolate or tobacco.

As you continue to enjoy the wine, take note of its mouthfeel and finish. Is it light-bodied or full-bodied? Is the finish short and crisp or long and lingering? These aspects can contribute to the overall enjoyment of the wine and provide a more complete sensory experience.

It’s worth mentioning that personal preferences can vary, and what may be the ideal serving temperature for one person may differ for another. It can be fun to experiment with different temperatures to find what suits your palate best. Ultimately, the goal is to find the temperature at which the wine’s flavors and aromas are most pronounced and enjoyable to you.

Drinking Campo Viejo wine involves paying attention to the temperature at which it is served. Cooling the wine slightly to around 16-17 degrees Celsius can enhance its aromas and flavors, allowing for a more enjoyable tasting experience. Taking the time to observe the wine’s appearance, inhale its aromas, and savor its flavors can help to fully appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle of Campo Viejo wine. Cheers!