Etérea Kripan Phinca Hapa Tinto 2021

Phinca Hapa Tinto comes from Etérea Kripan, the project of Melanie Hickman, who put her savings into vineyards in Elvillar and Kripan in Rioja Alavesa to make organic and biodynamic wines. It blends Tempranillo with Graciano, the local variety that adds acidity, colour and a peppery, herbal lift to a Rioja blend. Rioja Alavesa sits on the cooler, higher ground at the foot of the Sierra de Cantabria, on poor limestone-clay soils that hold water and reflect heat. The altitude and the shelter of the sierra give cool nights that preserve freshness, which is why this style stays light-bodied and bright rather than heavy. Biodynamic farming works the vineyard as a whole system, with composts and plant preparations in place of synthetic inputs, and the wine is aged in oak. It pours a bright, light red. The nose is fresh red fruit, cherry and raspberry, with dried herbs, redcurrant and a savoury, earthy edge. The palate is light and zesty, with fine tannin, lively acidity and a clean, peppery finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, and it takes a slight chill well. Good with lighter meats and vegetable dishes.