Baigorri Negu 2025

Baigorri is a modern, gravity-fed winery in Samaniego in Rioja Alavesa, sheltered by the Sierra de Cantabria. Negu is its young, fruit-driven Tempranillo, made to be drunk early rather than cellared. The Rioja Alavesa terroir matters here: chalky-clay soils and the protection of the mountain range give cooler conditions and good acid retention, so the wine keeps freshness even in a warm region. The fruit is given only a short maturation, around four months in large French oak vats rather than small barrels, which adds minimal wood flavour and instead lets gentle oxygen exchange soften the tannins while preserving the bright primary fruit and the juicy, accessible character the wine is built around. It pours a vivid cherry red. The nose is fresh and lifted, with cherry, strawberry and ripe plum over a light floral and peppery note; the palate is juicy and supple, with redcurrant and red-berry fruit, soft tannins, a clean acidity and an easy, fresh finish. This is an early-drinking style to enjoy young. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled if you like, with poultry, pork or tomato-based dishes.