Altos de Inurrieta Reserva 2021

Inurrieta lies between the municipalities of Miranda de Arga and Falces in the Ribera Navarra, within a micro-valley crossed by the river Arga. The site sits where the continental climate meets a Mediterranean influence, with fresh northern winds and moisture from the Pamplona basin driving cold summer and autumn nights. That wide diurnal range slows ripening, deepens colour and rounds the tannins, while keeping enough daytime warmth for full maturity. This Reserva blends Graciano with Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, three varieties that bring colour, structure and a peppery, dark-fruited character. After fermentation the wine ages for fifteen months in French Allier oak barrels, whose tight grain allows slow, gentle oxygen exchange that firms and integrates the tannins and adds a fine spice and toast. It is deep, almost opaque ruby, with dark berry, plum and black cherry on the nose framed by black pepper, liquorice and sweet oak. The palate is full bodied and firmly structured, with ripe tannins and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting an hour ahead, with grilled red meat or game.