Glorioso Crianza 2022

Glorioso Crianza is a Rioja red from Bodegas Palacio, part of a line first created in 1928 and the winery's best known label. It is made entirely from Tempranillo, the grape that defines classic Rioja, in the traditional categories of Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva. The grapes are destemmed and fermented at controlled temperature, after which the wine completes malolactic fermentation, the conversion of sharp malic acid into softer lactic acid that rounds the texture and lends a subtle creaminess. It is then clarified and aged twelve months in French oak, where slow oxygen exchange knits the tannins and adds vanilla, spice and a tobacco edge that is the signature of barrel aged Rioja. The colour is bright cherry red with a garnet tint. The nose shows red cranberry and blackberry framed by chocolate, tobacco and sweet spice. The palate is medium bodied and balanced, with supple tannins, ripe red fruit and a clean, oak inflected finish. The style favours elegance and refinement over weight, true to the brand. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees with roast and grilled meats.