Lindes de Remelluri Viñedos de Briñas 2021

Lindes de Remelluri comes from vineyards around Briñas in Rioja Alavesa, at the foot of the Sierra de Cantabria, a site farmed by Hieronymite monks as far back as the 14th century. The soils here are poor calcareous clay over limestone, and the high, north-facing position keeps the grapes cool, lengthening the growing season and preserving the natural acidity that defines classic Alavesa reds. The blend is mostly Tempranillo with a portion of Graciano, the latter lending colour, acidity and a peppery, herbal lift. Organic farming keeps yields modest and the fruit concentrated. After fermentation the wine spends twelve months in barrel, where gentle oxygen exchange rounds the tannins and adds a savoury cedar and spice frame without burying the fruit. The colour is medium ruby. The nose shows red cherry and wild berry over dried herbs, leather and a chalky mineral note. The palate is medium bodied and finely structured, with fresh acidity, a grippy mineral core and a long, earthy finish marked by liquorice and tobacco. Serve at 16 degrees, decanting young vintages briefly. It is a natural match for roast lamb and earthy mushroom dishes.