The 1968 Faustino Rioja Gran Reserva is a remarkable example of traditionally aged Rioja, offering a rare glimpse into the character of a great Spanish wine after nearly six decades in bottle.

Faustino’s Gran Reservas are produced in selected strong vintages and are known for extensive maturation in oak followed by prolonged bottle aging. This traditional approach creates wines designed not for early consumption, but for gradual evolution over decades. The result is a style of Rioja in which youthful fruit slowly gives way to the complex tertiary character prized by collectors.

From the historic 1968 vintage, this bottle has undergone an extraordinary transformation. Aromas of forest floor, leather, dried fig, cedar, tobacco, and mature spice emerge alongside remnants of dried red fruit. On the palate, the wine is elegant and fully evolved, with softened tannins and the bright, savory acidity that allows great Rioja to remain vibrant even after decades of aging.

This is precisely what makes mature Gran Reserva so fascinating. The wine is no longer defined by primary fruit, but by the subtle interplay of age, oak, acidity, and tertiary complexity. Give it time in the glass and additional earthy, balsamic, and dried-fruit nuances can emerge.

The 1968 Faustino Gran Reserva is more than simply an old bottle—it is a snapshot of Rioja winemaking from another era and a compelling demonstration of why traditional Rioja Gran Reserva remains one of the world's great age-worthy wine styles.

Complete with original wire mesh wrapping, adding an especially distinctive presentation and collector appeal.

Why You’ll Love It

• Historic 1968 vintage: Nearly six decades of bottle age and evolution.
• Traditional Gran Reserva: Extensive oak and bottle maturation have created remarkable tertiary complexity.
• Classic mature Rioja: Forest floor, leather, dried fig, cedar, tobacco, spice, and dried fruit.
• Still vibrant: Mature character is balanced by the acidity that gives aged Rioja its freshness and longevity.
• Iconic producer: Faustino is one of Rioja's most recognized names for traditionally aged wines.
• Original wire mesh wrapping: Preserved original presentation adds character and collector appeal.
• A true age-worthy category: A fascinating demonstration of why Rioja Gran Reserva can evolve for decades.

We highly recommend opening these aged rarities with an Ah-So (two-prong opener) or Durand corkscrew.

How To Serve

• Stand upright: Keep the bottle upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle.
• Open carefully: Use an Ah-So two-prong opener or Durand to protect the mature cork.
• Decant gently: Decant carefully if necessary to remove sediment, but avoid prolonged aeration.
• Serve cool: Serve at approximately 58–62°F in large wine glasses.
• Let it evolve: Pour gently and allow the wine to develop naturally in the glass.
• Pair with: Roasted lamb, aged Manchego, game meats, braised beef, mushrooms, or traditional Spanish cuisine.