Coto de Imaz Gran Reserva 2019

Coto de Imaz Gran Reserva is made by El Coto de Rioja in Oyón, in the Álava sector of D.O.Ca. Rioja, mainly from Tempranillo with Graciano. The region's moderately continental climate, with Mediterranean and Bay of Biscay influences, is sheltered from the cold northern winds by the Sierra de Cantabria, giving a long, even ripening season. Calcareous clay soils and the cool nights of the Sierra foothills hold acidity and lend the wine its fresh, savoury backbone, while Graciano adds colour, structure and aromatic lift to the Tempranillo. As a Gran Reserva the wine is aged twenty four months in French and American oak followed by long bottle ageing, the extended élevage developing tertiary character: the American oak gives coconut and vanilla, the slow oxidation in barrel and bottle builds the leather, tobacco and earthy notes of a mature Rioja and softens the tannins to a fine, resolved texture. The colour is ruby with garnet at the rim. The nose unfolds with ripe red fruit, toasted barrel, coconut, leather and damp earth. The palate is medium to full bodied, mellow and complex, with fine tannins, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant. It suits roast lamb and mature cheeses.