Ramón Bilbao Rioja Organic 2023

Ramón Bilbao is one of Rioja's best-known houses, and this organic bottling sits in D.O.Ca. Rioja in northern Spain. The blend is Tempranillo with Garnacha, the region's two main red grapes, farmed organically without synthetic inputs. Rioja's continental climate, moderated by Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, and its limestone-clay soils give Tempranillo its balance of fresh red fruit and structure, holding alcohol to a measured 13.5%. The wine spends eight months in American oak barrels, which through slow oxygen exchange soften the tannins and lend the coconut and vanilla spice typical of American oak in Rioja. The style is modern and fruit-forward while keeping the savoury Rioja signature. The wine is bright cherry red. The nose offers red cherry, raspberry and plum with vanilla, dried herbs and a light tobacco note. The palate is medium-bodied and supple, with juicy red fruit, fresh acidity, rounded tannins and a savoury, spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and pork.