LAN Rioja Reserva 2018
Rioja, Spain • classic
Dried cherry, vanilla, and saddle leather over silken tannins.
Valencian Paella
rice • saffron • celebration
Also known as: traditional valencian paella
About the Dish
Valencian Paella is a spanish rice that leans on rice, saffron, celebration. We look for bottles that respect the texture and seasoning without drowning the dish.
Our goal: keep the rice feel intact while adding lift from Rioja Reserva Tempranillo.
Top Pour: Rioja Reserva Tempranillo
Rioja’s savory oak and balanced tannin match saffron rice, rabbit, and chorizo.
Body: mediumAcidity: mediumTannin: mediumSweetness: dry
Why it works
- Vanillin oak echoes toasted arroz socarrat.
- Balanced tannin handles lamb fat without drying out seafood in mixed dishes.
Signature aromas
dried cherrytobaccocedar
Bottle inspiration
Pairing Playbook
- Vanillin oak echoes toasted arroz socarrat.
- Balanced tannin handles lamb fat without drying out seafood in mixed dishes.
- Avoid: sweet white blends, tannic young nebbiolo.
Solid Alternates
Provence — Body: lightProvence — Acidity: mediumProvence — Sweetness: dryRías — Body: lightRías — Acidity: highRías — Sweetness: dry
FAQ
- What wine pairs best with Valencian Paella?
- Rioja Reserva Tempranillo is our first pour because Rioja’s savory oak and balanced tannin match saffron rice, rabbit, and chorizo..
- Are there budget-friendly alternatives for Valencian Paella?
- If Rioja Reserva Tempranillo is out of reach, grab Provence Rosé—it shares the same structure and keeps the food in focus.
- Which wines should I avoid with Valencian Paella?
- Skip styles like sweet white blends, tannic young nebbiolo—they fight the seasoning or overwhelm the dish.
- What if I want a non-alcoholic pairing for Valencian Paella?
- Try sparkling water with a citrus twist, chilled oolong tea, or verjus spritzes—they mirror acidity without the alcohol.
Skip These Bottles
sweet white blendstannic young nebbiolo
Explore Related Styles
These bottles share structural traits with Rioja Reserva Tempranillo. Great options when the shelf is bare.