Campo Viejo Crianza 2022

Campo Viejo Crianza is a red from DOCa Rioja, a blend led by Tempranillo with Garnacha and Mazuela. After harvest the grapes ferment in temperature controlled stainless steel, then macerate on their skins for about ten days to extract colour and tannin. The wine ages for twelve months in American and French oak before a further six months refining in bottle, the minimum framework that defines the Crianza category. American oak gives the wine its hallmark sweet vanilla and coconut tone, while the gentle oxygen exchange through the barrel staves softens tannins and rounds the texture. Rioja's continental climate, tempered by the Ebro valley, ripens Tempranillo steadily and keeps acidity fresh. The 2022 shows bright cherry and red berry fruit over vanilla, clove and a developing note of leather and oak spice. The palate is medium bodied at 13.5 percent, smooth and balanced, with soft tannins and a rounded finish in the familiar Rioja style. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It is an easy partner for roast and grilled meats, from lamb cutlets to pork, and for mushroom and rice dishes.