Heraclio Alfaro Crianza 2022

Heraclio Alfaro is a Rioja venture from Terras Gauda, the Galician winery best known for Albariño from Rías Baixas, here turning its attention to red wine in D.O.Ca. Rioja. This crianza is a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha and Graciano, drawn from 30 hectares of 40-year-old vines. The mature vine age is important: old vines crop a smaller, more concentrated yield with deeper roots that reach down through the clay-limestone soils for water and minerals, lending balance and depth. Each grape plays its part, with Tempranillo for structure and red fruit, Garnacha for warmth and ripeness, and Graciano for colour, acidity and aromatic lift. The Rioja climate, balancing Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, keeps the fruit fresh. The wine ages for twelve months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange through the staves softens the tannins and adds vanilla and sweet spice, while malolactic fermentation rounds the acidity into a supple texture. It pours a bright ruby colour with violet highlights, and the nose shows cherry, raspberry and red berries over a frame of oak spice. The palate is medium bodied and balanced, with fine tannins and a clean, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits roast lamb, grilled pork and hard cheeses.