Eguren Ugarte Crianza 2022

Eguren Ugarte Crianza is a Rioja red from Bodegas Eguren Ugarte, made mainly from Tempranillo with a small share of Garnacha grown across vineyards in Labastida, Páganos and Elciego in the heart of Rioja Alavesa. The climate here is Mediterranean with a strong Atlantic influence, the Sierra de Cantabria shielding the vines from cold northern winds, while the clay and limestone soils retain water and lend structure and freshness. The grapes are vinified and then aged for fifteen months in French and American oak. American oak contributes the vanilla, coconut and toasted character typical of classic Rioja, while the French barrels add finer tannin and spice, and the gradual oxygen exchange through the wood softens the tannins and rounds the texture. The wine is medium bodied, with a bright cherry red colour and aromas of toasted wood and vanilla over juicy blackberry and red fruit. The palate is fresh and approachable, with red berry and plum fruit, a savoury edge of tobacco and leather, and a gentle oak frame. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, with a short decant to open the fruit. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and hard sheep cheeses.