Abel Mendoza Graciano Grano a Grano 2022

Abel Mendoza Graciano Grano a Grano is an unusual single variety Graciano from Abel Mendoza Monge, the winery founded in 1988 at San Vicente de la Sonsierra, near the Sierra de Cantabria in the Rioja Alta. Graciano is normally a minor blending grape in Rioja, prized for its colour, acidity and dark spice, and here it is given the lead role from the winery's own vineyards, which average 35 years of age and sit on the banks of the Ebro. The Rioja Alta climate is continental and moderate, tempered by a Cantabrian maritime influence, with mild temperatures and a useful day to night swing that holds the variety's naturally high acidity and locks in its peppery aromatics. The wine is farmed sustainably and aged for 18 months in French oak, where slow oxygen exchange tames Graciano's firm tannins and adds restraint and spice while keeping the fruit fresh. Expect a deep cherry red with a garnet rim, a nose of red berries, plum and liquorice over black pepper and dried herbs, and a structured, savoury palate with bright acidity and a long, mineral finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted, with grilled red meat.