Barón de Ley Gran Reserva 2019

Barón de Ley produces this Gran Reserva in the municipal area of Cenicero, in Rioja Alta, from a blend of Tempranillo and Graciano. The vineyards sit on soils poor in organic matter, which keeps yields low and lifts the natural acidity and concentration of the fruit, while the predominantly Atlantic climate, with its regular rainfall and cooler temperatures, gives the slow ripening that underpins an age-worthy wine. Graciano adds acidity, colour and a peppery, aromatic lift to the structuring Tempranillo. The wine is made by traditional methods refined over years at the estate, then given the long Gran Reserva ageing: 24 months in a mix of French and American oak followed by 36 months in bottle. The extended time in barrel allows slow oxygen exchange to soften the tannins and build savoury, spiced complexity, while the bottle ageing develops tertiary character before release. The result is a mature, elegant red, deep ruby in the glass, with ripe red fruit giving way to saffron, tobacco, leather and a balsamic, cedary depth. The palate is medium to full bodied, fine and balanced, with silky tannins and a long finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees, decanting ahead, with roast meats.