En Voz Baja Costumbres Tinto 2022

En Voz Baja Costumbres is made by Vinos en Voz Baja, the project of Carlos Mazo and Isabel Ruiz in Aldeanueva de Ebro, in Rioja Oriental. They farm their vineyards organically in a dry Mediterranean climate, and Garnacha, the leading grape here with a portion of Graciano, is well suited to the heat and drought of this eastern stretch of Rioja. The hand-harvested fruit comes from several villages including Aldeanueva de Ebro, Alfaro and Corella. The warm climate and low rainfall push the Garnacha to full ripeness, giving generous fruit and a fuller body at 14% alcohol, while Graciano adds colour, acidity and a peppery lift. Ageing runs to eleven months in French oak, which rounds the tannins through slow oxidation and adds a light spice, with malolactic fermentation softening the acidity. The wine is deep red. The nose is ripe raspberry and plum with black pepper, liquorice and a wild herb note of thyme and rosemary. The palate is full and generous, with ripe fruit, supple tannin and a warm, spicy finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled lamb and roast meats.