Artadi Tradición 2024

Artadi makes this Tradicion in the Rioja Alavesa around Laguardia, a single-varietal Tempranillo from vineyards planted at altitudes between 450 and 700 metres. The vines are farmed by integrated viticulture with care for the environment and without herbicides or pesticides, and the grapes are picked by hand and carried to the winery in small 10 kilo boxes to keep the fruit intact. The altitude and the cool nights of the Alavesa preserve acidity and give the wine freshness and definition, while the region's limestone and clay soils lend structure and a savoury backbone. Although styled as a young, approachable red, it is aged for 12 months in French oak, which rounds the tannins and adds a measured spice and a savoury frame through slow oxygen exchange rather than heavy oak flavour. The colour is a bright cherry red and the nose shows ripe red cherry, strawberry and plum with vanilla, dried herbs and a touch of leather. The palate is medium bodied and fresh at 14% alcohol, with juicy red fruit, brisk acidity, fine tannins and a savoury, gently spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 17C with roast lamb, grilled beef or a mature hard cheese.