Oxer Matalaz 2025

Oxer Bastegieta is a young Basque winemaker who farms old Rioja plots organically and works in a traditional manner. Matalaz, named for a local priest who fought for justice, is his fresher, earlier drinking red, blending Tempranillo with Graciano, Viura and Mazuelo. Rioja's clay and limestone soils give Tempranillo its balance of red fruit and savour, while the Atlantic influence and cool nights preserve freshness and lift. The white Viura adds aroma and brightness, Graciano and Mazuelo bring acidity and a touch of structure. The wine ages eight months in oak barrels, a short élevage that rounds the tannin through gentle oxygen exchange and adds light spice while keeping the fruit forward and vivid. The colour is bright ruby. The nose shows ripe blackberry and plum with strawberry, dried herbs and a hint of spice. The palate is light to medium bodied, juicy and supple, with fresh acidity, soft tannin and a clean finish at thirteen and a half per cent. This is a red built for early, easy drinking. Serve at fifteen to sixteen degrees, lightly chilled if you like. It suits grilled pork, roast chicken and charcuterie.