El Tiznado 2025

Cuentaviñas is the solo venture of Eduardo Eguren, fifth generation of a well known Rioja family, working in Rioja Alavesa in the north of Spain. El Tiznado is a Tempranillo built to show the character of its plot rather than a house blend. Rioja Alavesa lies on chalky clay soils at altitude beneath the Sierra de Cantabria, where the limestone holds acidity and the cool nights preserve aroma and freshness in the fruit. Farming is organic and biodynamic, with native yeast fermentation. Ageing in French oak softens the tannins through slow oxygen exchange while keeping the fruit to the front, a more restrained use of wood than the traditional Rioja style. The wine is bright ruby with violet reflections, showing ripe red cherry, raspberry and plum over a floral lift, dried herbs and a stony mineral note. The palate is fresh and supple, the tannins fine, the acidity bright, the finish clean and savoury. Serve at 15 to 17 degrees. It pairs with roast lamb, grilled beef and aged hard cheese.