Malpuesto 2022

Malpuesto is a single-vineyard Tempranillo from D.O.Ca. Rioja, made by Orben from the Malpuesto finca in Rioja Alavesa, at the foot of the Sierra Cantabria. The 1.2-hectare hillside plot was planted in 1931 and is among the oldest in the area, its name a reference to the irregular layout of the old vines. The mountain shelters the vineyard and creates cool nights, while the calcareous clay slopes drain well and keep yields low, concentrating the fruit of these old plants. Fifteen months in French oak round the firm Tempranillo tannins and add cedar, spice and a fine toast through slow oxygen exchange, framing rather than covering the fruit. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows ripe plum and black cherry, tobacco, liquorice and a savoury, earthy depth. The palate is full bodied and structured, with firm, ripe tannin, fresh acidity and a long, spiced finish built for the cellar. Serve at 17 degrees and decant an hour ahead. It suits roast lamb, beef and aged cheese.