Artuke El Escolladero 2024

Artuke is the project of brothers Arturo and Kike Blanco, working old family vineyards across the Sonsierra in Rioja Alta. El Escolladero is a village wine drawn from Tempranillo with a share of Graciano, farmed under respectful, low-intervention practices on the poor stony and calcareous soils that characterise this high western corner of the D.O.Ca. The cool nights and altitude here slow ripening and keep acidity firm, giving the wine its taut, savoury line. Ageing runs for twelve months in 500-litre French oak barrels, a larger format than the standard barrica, so oxygen contact is gentler and the oak frames rather than dominates, preserving the freshness and detail of the fruit. The wine shows a bright ruby colour and a nose of dark cherry, red berries and plum lifted by black pepper, dried herbs and a touch of smoke. The palate is fresh and finely structured, with crisp acidity, polished tannins and a long, mineral finish. This is sustainably farmed and very much a wine of place. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, with roast lamb, grilled red meats or mushroom dishes.