Rioja Vega Edición Limitada 2022

Rioja Vega is based at Viana, in the westernmost and cooler part of D.O.Ca. Rioja known as Rioja Baja. This Edición Limitada is mostly Tempranillo with a small portion of Graciano, the variety that lends acidity and dark aromatics to a Rioja blend. The vines sit on clay-limestone soils that are poor in organic matter and scattered with pebbles, alluvial stones and gravel, drainage that limits vigour and concentrates the fruit. Fourteen months in oak barrels drives the wine, where slow oxygen exchange through the staves softens the tannins and adds vanilla, clove and a measure of toast, while the long ageing builds the savoury leather and tobacco notes that characterise traditional Rioja. The colour is deep cherry red. The nose carries red berry, plum and sweet spice over a cedary background, and the palate is medium bodied and structured, with fine grippy tannins and a dry, lightly oaky finish. Serve at sixteen to eighteen degrees, decanting briefly if young. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and aged sheep cheese.