Artadi Valdeginés 2023

Bodegas y Viñedos Artadi works in Laguardia in Rioja Alavesa, a producer that grew from a 1985 growers' group into a single-vineyard project focused on site over appellation. Valdeginés is a pure Tempranillo from organically farmed plots on the chalky clay-limestone soils of the Alavesa, where altitude and cool nights preserve freshness and lend the wine its savoury line. The grapes are certified organic, and after fermentation the wine completes malolactic conversion to soften acidity before twelve months in French oak. That barrel ageing exchanges slow oxygen through the wood, stabilising colour, rounding tannin and adding vanilla and a light toast. The result is a wine that balances ripe fruit with structure. It shows a deep colour, and the nose carries black plum and ripe redcurrant over subtle spice and an earthy, mineral undertone. The palate is medium to full, with fine-grained tannin, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish that reflects the cool-climate site. Serve at 16 to 17C and decant young vintages. It pairs well with roast lamb, grilled red meat and mushroom dishes.