Finca Allende 2015

Finca Allende makes this Rioja red from Tempranillo near Logrono, the work of Miguel Angel Gregorio, who took over historic vineyards once farmed by Marques de Murrieta before founding his own winery in 1995. The vines average forty-five years of age, planted on clay soils with a gravel content that drains well and forces the roots deep, while the low yields of older vines give the wine concentration and length. The estate is farmed sustainably, with organic fertiliser and minimal intervention. Ageing takes place in French oak, where slow oxygen exchange through the staves softens Tempranillo's tannins and adds cedar and spice, and with bottle age this 2015 has developed the tertiary character that marks a mature Rioja. It pours a garnet-edged red, with a nose of cherry and plum that has evolved towards tobacco, leather and damp earth over a fine oak frame. The palate is medium to full, the tannins resolved and fine-grained, the mature fruit carried on fresh acidity to a long, savoury, earthy finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. A fine match for roast lamb and game.