Dominio Campo Viejo 2016

Dominio Campo Viejo is a Rioja red built mainly on Tempranillo, at ninety per cent, with five per cent each of Graciano and Mazuelo for spice and structure. The fruit is drawn from five different plots, each farmed to suit its site, giving the blend range and balance. After hand-harvesting the grapes ferment in stainless steel at a controlled 25 degrees, then macerate on their skins for twenty-eight days, an unusually long contact that draws out colour, tannin and depth of flavour before the wine goes to barrel. It is aged eleven months in French oak, which adds vanilla and a fine, sweet spice while softening the tannins through gentle oxygen exchange. Expect a deep red colour and a nose of ripe red and dark fruit with sweet spice, vanilla and a subtle earthy note. The palate is smooth and structured, the extended maceration giving body and grip balanced by fresh acidity, closing on a savoury, spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted if young. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef, pork and mature hard cheese.