Rioja Vega Garnacha y Graciano 2023

Rioja Vega makes this red in D.O.Ca. Rioja as an equal blend of Garnacha and Graciano, an unusual pairing that leans on Garnacha for ripe red fruit and warmth and on Graciano for colour, acidity and a peppery, herbal edge. The two varieties are grown and vinified separately to keep their characters distinct. After a swift harvest the grapes are fermented for up to seven days at 26C, followed by three days of maceration on the skins to draw out colour and gentle tannin, before the wines are blended. Ageing is short, just six months in American oak, which adds a soft vanilla and coconut note and rounds the wine while keeping the emphasis on fresh fruit. The colour is a bright cherry red and the nose is lifted and fresh, with strawberry, red cherry and plum alongside red currant, black pepper and dried herbs. The palate is light to medium bodied at 13% alcohol, with juicy red fruit, brisk acidity, supple tannins and a clean, gently spiced finish. This is an easygoing red that suits early drinking and can take a slight chill. Serve at 14 to 16C with roast chicken, pork or grilled oily fish.