Faustino Crianza 2022

Faustino Crianza is a red from D.O.Ca. Rioja, made by the Faustino winery from Tempranillo grown on its own vineyards between Laguardia and Oyon in Rioja Alavesa. These calcareous clay soils retain moisture through the dry summers and suit Tempranillo, while the altitude and cool nights of the Alavesa preserve freshness and aromatic lift. The wine is a traditional Rioja crianza, fermented and then aged fourteen months in American oak barrels. American oak is more porous and more openly aromatic than French oak, and the long ageing with slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins while contributing the vanilla, coconut and creamy spice that define the classic Rioja style. The colour is bright cherry red with a garnet rim. The nose shows ripe cherry and red berries, smoky paprika and a creamy vanilla character from the wood, with a savoury, lightly leathery undertone. The palate is medium bodied, smooth and approachable, with mellow tannins, fresh acidity and a spiced, vanilla-tinged finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and cured meats.