Bhilar Plots Tinto 2024

Bhilar Plots Tinto is the work of David Sampedro, an agronomist who returned to his birthplace of Elvillar, in Rioja Alavesa, to build a small, solar-powered winery farmed organically. The wine is a field blend of Garnacha Tinta and Tempranillo with a small share of the white grape Viura, drawn from a village said to hold the highest proportion of old vines in Rioja. Co-fermenting red and white grapes is a traditional practice that brightens aroma and lightens the palate. The vineyards sit on poor limestone and clay soils at altitude, where cool nights and a wide diurnal range keep acidity firm and the fruit fresh rather than heavy. Organic farming and a young 2024 release keep the focus on bright, primary fruit, while a short period in barrel rounds the texture without marking the wine with oak. The colour is bright, light ruby. The nose shows red berries, cherry and a floral, herbal lift, with a stony undertone. The palate is light to medium bodied, fresh and juicy, with fine tannin and a clean, savoury finish. Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 15 degrees. It suits charcuterie and roast chicken.