Hermanos Hernáiz El Jardín de la Emperatriz Tinto 2022

This red comes from the Finca La Emperatriz, a single estate in the western part of Rioja farmed by Hermanos Hernáiz and classified as a Viñedo Singular, the region's category for distinctive single-vineyard sites. It blends Tempranillo with Garnacha grown on the property, where clay and limestone soils sit at the cooler, higher western edge of the appellation. The Atlantic influence and the wide swing between warm days and cool nights hold onto acidity and keep the fruit fresh and bright rather than jammy. After fermentation and malolactic conversion, the wine spends 15 months in French and American oak, a Crianza maturation that rounds the tannins and folds in gentle spice and vanilla while keeping the emphasis on fruit. The colour is bright cherry red with a purple rim. The nose leads with cherry, raspberry and plum, with liquorice and a light vanilla and toast note from the wood. The palate is medium bodied, juicy and supple, with soft tannins, fresh acidity and a clean, fruit-led finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It pairs with lamb, pork and hard cheeses.