Vineyards

This red wine combines two of the most traditional grape varieties from Rioja: Tempranillo (90%) and Graciano (10%). The grapes come from the 4-hectare El Bardallo estate, with vines over 60 years old rooted in clay-limestone soil on a limestone bedrock, located in a mid-altitude area (580m.) in San Vicente de la Sonsierra (La Rioja).

Preparation

After selecting the fruit, each grape variety is harvested separately and then vinified and aged individually before being blended into the wine. The winemaking process includes alcoholic fermentation at 24-26°C in small tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation in new French oak barrels for 24 months. Afterwards, the wine is refined in the bottle for an additional 12 months. The 2019 harvest was rated as “excellent” thanks to the stability in the vineyard’s development and its sanitary and vegetative condition.

Degree: 14%.

Tasting Notes

Color: cherry red with a slightly violet hue. Deep intensity.
Nose: expressive and complex, dominated by ripe red fruit like cherry and blackberry, perfectly balanced with toasted notes of French oak and spices such as pepper, clove, and cigar box.
Palate: the taste shows a good density on the palate, featuring mature, polished tannins that culminate in exquisite elegance with a fine integration between the oak and the ripe fruit of a quality Tempranillo.

Operating temperature: 16-18º.

Pairing

It makes a perfect contrast with a board of cured sheep cheeses and blue cheese like Cabrales. It also pairs wonderfully with traditional dishes such as roasted lamb, where the tannins and volume form an ideal match with the richness of lamb meat.