Oxer Suzzane 2023

Suzzane is a Garnacha red from D.O.Ca. Rioja, made by Oxer Bastegieta in Laguardia, in the Rioja Alavesa. Oxer trained in oenology and viticulture before settling in the region in 2009, working its vineyards and making wines that reflect the zone. Garnacha ripens fully here, and at 15 percent alcohol this is a warm, generous style. The grape is naturally low in colour and tannin but high in sugar and alcohol, which is why it gives such ripe, fleshy fruit when grown in a sunny site. The wine spends fourteen months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the structure and adds spice, while the time on its lees rounds out the texture. Farming is respectful of the land. The colour is deep cherry red. The nose shows ripe plum, cherry and red berries, with black pepper, liquorice and a vanilla note from the barrel. The palate is full and warming, with soft tannins and a long, spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It is a natural match for roast and grilled red meats.