Rioja Vega Crianza 2022

Rioja Vega Crianza is made by the Rioja Vega winery from its own farms in La Rioja, a blend led by Tempranillo at 80 percent with Grenache and Mazuelo making up the rest. After harvest the fruit is fermented over about ten days, then macerated on the skins for 18 days to extract colour, tannin and flavour, before malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks at 28 degrees, which converts sharper malic acid to softer lactic acid and rounds the texture. Tempranillo gives the cherry and red-berry core and the wine's structure, Grenache adds warmth and fruit, and Mazuelo lends acidity and grip. As a Crianza, it ages for 12 months in American oak barrels, which through slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and contributes the vanilla, coconut and sweet-spice character typical of the cask type. The wine is bright ruby, with a nose of ripe cherry, red berries, vanilla and a herbal, lightly spiced edge. The palate is medium bodied at 13.5 percent, smooth and approachable, with supple tannin and a fresh, spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It is a versatile match for roast and grilled meats.