Sonsierra Reserva 2019

Sonsierra Reserva is a monovarietal Tempranillo from D.O.Ca. Rioja, made by Bodegas Sonsierra in San Vicente de la Sonsierra. The winery began in 1962 when more than two hundred and forty growers formed a cooperative, the first in Rioja to label its wines by individual origin, and it now farms some five hundred and sixteen hectares of members' vineyards. San Vicente de la Sonsierra sits on the cooler northern bank of the Ebro in Rioja Alta, on chalky clay soils at altitude where cool nights hold acidity and give Tempranillo its bright red fruit and good ageing potential. This Reserva is aged twelve months in a mix of French and American oak, a combination that balances the cedar and spice of French barrels with the vanilla and sweet spice of American ones, while the time in wood softens the tannins through slow oxygen exchange and adds leather and tobacco. From the 2019 vintage it shows classic Rioja poise. Expect a ruby colour with a garnet rim, a nose of red cherry, plum, vanilla and gentle leather, and a medium-bodied palate with smooth tannin, fresh acidity and a savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanting briefly. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and roast poultry.