Selvanevada 2022

Selvanevada is made at the Villota winery in Rioja Alavesa by Carmen Pérez, with help from oenologist Basilio Izquierdo, as an approachable everyday red. It is a blend led by Tempranillo with Graciano, Garnacha and Mazuela, the classic Rioja varieties. Rioja Alavesa sits on clay-limestone soils at the foot of the Sierra de Cantabria, which shelters the vineyards and keeps a cool influence, helping the grapes hold freshness and bright red fruit. Graciano adds acidity and structure, Garnacha warmth and Mazuela colour and grip. The wine ages a short six months in French oak; the brief time and the choice of French rather than American barrels give light vanilla and spice through gentle oxygen exchange while keeping the fruit fresh and the wine ready to drink young. The colour is bright cherry red. The nose shows red berries and cherry over soft vanilla, dried herbs and a touch of tobacco. The palate is medium bodied, the tannins supple and the acidity fresh, with a savoury, gently spiced finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It suits pork, poultry and lighter grilled meats.