Viña Cubillo 2018

Viña Cubillo comes from R. López de Heredia's Viña Tondonia, the historic cellar in Haro at the heart of Rioja Alta, one of the most traditional houses in the region. It is a field blend led by Tempranillo with Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuela, grown on the limestone and clay soils of Rioja Alta where a cooler, Atlantic-influenced climate keeps acidity high and alcohol moderate. The wine is made in the classic style, with long ageing of thirty-six months in oak barrels followed by extended time in bottle before release. This slow, oxidative barrel ageing converts primary fruit into the leather, dried herb and savoury tones that define old-school Rioja, while the porous oak softens tannins gradually over years rather than months. The colour is a bright cherry red already showing some development at the rim. The nose offers red fruits of strawberry and cherry alongside vanilla, sweet spice, tobacco and worn leather. The palate is medium bodied and supple at 13.5%, with fine tannins, fresh acidity and a long, mellow finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It is a natural match for roast lamb, poultry and mushroom dishes.