El Inquilino Crianza 2022

El Inquilino Crianza is a red from D.O.Ca. Rioja, made by Bodegas Zorzal, founded in 1989 to revive native varieties and let the vineyard lead. It blends Garnacha and Tempranillo from 40 hectares near Fitero, on the lower Ebro, where the gentle terrain forms a cooler pocket among the surrounding vineyards. That extra freshness shapes the wine, holding acidity and keeping the fruit bright in a region that can run warm and ripe. Garnacha brings red fruit and a supple, perfumed character, while Tempranillo adds structure and savoury depth. The wine ages 12 months in used French oak, the older barrels giving slow oxygenation and softening tannins without overlaying heavy new wood, so the fruit stays in the foreground. The colour is bright medium ruby. The nose leads with fresh strawberry and red cherry, lifted by dried herbs and a light spice from the barrel. The palate is medium bodied and elegant, the cool site keeping it lively, finishing on red fruit, gentle vanilla and a savoury, leathery note. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits roast lamb, grilled pork and mushroom dishes.