Oinoz Crianza 2022

Oinoz Crianza is a Rioja red made by Bodega Carlos Moro in San Vicente de la Sonsierra, a village in the Rioja Alta. The project, founded in 2014, sources from selected plots chosen for their climate, soils and vine age, and works the Tempranillo grape that is the backbone of the region. Rioja's continental climate, tempered by Atlantic influence from the north-west, suits Tempranillo well, allowing a long, even ripening, while the clay and limestone soils hold moisture and lend the wines structure. As a Crianza the wine ages 12 months in oak barrels, where slow oxidative maturation softens the tannins and layers in vanilla, clove and a cedar frame before further time in bottle. The colour is bright cherry red. The nose shows ripe red berries and cherry over toasted oak, sweet spice and tobacco. The palate is medium bodied and balanced, with supple tannins, fresh acidity and a savoury, lightly earthy finish. This is approachable Rioja in the traditional register. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, with roast lamb, grilled beef or mushroom dishes.