Campo Viejo Gran Reserva 2017

Campo Viejo Gran Reserva is a red wine from D.O.Ca. Rioja, made by the Campo Viejo winery from a traditional blend of Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazuelo. The fruit is sourced from plots across the three sub-regions of Rioja, Alavesa, Alta and Baja, each adding something: the cooler, limestone-rich Alavesa and Alta lending freshness and structure, the warmer Baja bringing ripeness and body. Graciano contributes acidity and aromatic lift, Mazuelo colour and grip. This is a long-aged Gran Reserva, with twenty-four months in French and American oak followed by extended bottle ageing before release. The mix of oak types layers French savoury spice with American vanilla and coconut, while slow oxidation in barrel and the years that follow develop the leather, tobacco and dried-fruit character of a mature Rioja. It shows a garnet colour and a complex nose of ripe black fruit and plum over spice, coffee and a savoury, leathery note. The palate is medium to full bodied, with soft, resolved tannins and a long, elegant finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant if young; it is a classic match for roast lamb.