Izadi Crianza 2022

Izadi works in the triangle of Villabuena, Samaniego and Ábalos in the higher, cooler western reaches of Rioja, farming 178 hectares of vines, many over 45 years old. The grapes grow on poor clay-limestone soils that are common across this part of the region. Low-fertility ground of this kind naturally limits vine vigour and yield, concentrating flavour in the fruit, while the older vines deepen that concentration further. The continental climate, with hot days and cold nights, keeps acidity firm and lengthens the ripening season. This Crianza ages for fourteen months in a mix of French and American oak. The two woods do different jobs: American oak gives sweeter vanilla and coconut, while tighter-grained French oak adds cedar and fine spice, and the slow oxygen exchange through the staves softens the tannin and builds savoury complexity. The result is an intense yet approachable red, showing ripe red fruit, liquorice and warm spice with a delicate smoky nuance, a palate of fine tannin and good freshness, and a savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and mushroom dishes.