Ad Libitum Maturana Tinta 2024

Ad Libitum Maturana Tinta is made by Juan Carlos Sancha in Baños de Río Tobía, in Rioja Alta, from 5.5 hectares of organically farmed vineyards in the Najerilla valley. Sancha has been central to rescuing the area's old and near forgotten varieties, and this wine comes from a clone recovered from ancient Maturana Tinta vines. The vineyard, planted as bush vines, is now about fifteen years old. Maturana Tinta is one of Rioja's oldest documented grapes, naturally deeply coloured, fresh and structured, and this bottling shows it in a modern, fruit driven form at a moderate 13% alcohol. The wine ages eleven months in French oak, which rounds the tannins and adds a light spice while keeping the varietal fruit to the fore. The colour is a deep, vivid ruby. The nose shows red berry and plum, with a savoury, gently herbal edge and a lift of black pepper. The palate is medium to full bodied, with firm fresh tannin, bright acidity and a clean, lightly oaked finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits roast and grilled meats and hearty vegetable dishes.