Biga Crianza 2023

Luberri makes Biga Crianza in Elciego, in Rioja Alavesa, from one hundred per cent Tempranillo grown on vineyards at 400 to 600 metres above sea level. The climate here is continental with a Mediterranean influence, and the Sierra de Cantabria shelters the vines from cold northern winds, giving a long, even ripening that builds ripe fruit and firm acidity. The wine ages for twelve months in French and American oak barrels, a Crianza ageing that softens the tannins through oxygen exchange and layers in spice and vanilla, the American oak leaning sweeter and the French tighter. Malolactic fermentation rounds the acidity into a smoother texture. The colour is bright cherry red. The nose shows clean blackberry and black cherry with vanilla, clove and a little toast. The palate is medium to full bodied, fresh and vibrant, the fruit carried by ripe tannin and lively acidity, finishing on dark fruit and warm spice. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It suits grilled lamb, roast pork and Manchego.