Muriel Crianza Rioja Alavesa 2022

Muriel Crianza is a single-variety Tempranillo from Bodegas Muriel in Rioja Alavesa, the cooler northern reach of the D.O.Ca. Rioja. The grapes come from vines averaging 20 years, planted between 400 and 700 metres and trained on the traditional goblet system, which keeps yields modest and exposes the fruit evenly. The Sierra de Cantabria shelters the zone from the worst of the Atlantic weather while the maritime influence moderates the Mediterranean climate, so the grapes ripen slowly and retain acidity. After fermentation the wine ages 12 months in American oak, the classic Rioja choice, where the wood lends the vanilla, coconut and dill character that defines the style and softens the tannins through slow oxygen exchange. It shows a deep ruby colour. The nose offers red fruit such as cherry and strawberry alongside vanilla, toast and a touch of sweet spice from the barrel. The palate is medium bodied and balanced, with rounded tannins, fresh acidity and a savoury, lightly oaky finish. This is a vegan wine. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, with or without a short decant, beside roast and grilled meats or aged cheese.