Principe de Viana Crianza 2021

Príncipe de Viana Crianza is a blended red from D.O. Navarra, made by the winery of the same name. It blends Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, each variety grown in a separate field around Caparroso and Cadreita and picked by hand in the traditional way. Navarra sits at the meeting of Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, and that cooler edge gives the wines a fresh fruit-forward character, the Tempranillo lending red fruit and structure, the Cabernet tannin and a herbal note, the Merlot softness and plum. The wine completes malolactic fermentation to soften the acidity, then ages 12 months in French and American oak, the Crianza standard, where the barrel settles the tannins and adds light vanilla and spice while keeping the fruit to the fore. The colour is bright cherry red. The nose shows cherry and plum over a subtle sweet spice from the oak. The palate is medium bodied with fresh acidity, ripe soft tannins and a clean, fruity finish. An approachable and balanced everyday red. Serve at 16C. Pairs well with roast meats and cheese.