Viña Real Crianza 2022

Viña Real Crianza is a Rioja from Viña Real, part of the CVNE group, built around Tempranillo at 90% with Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano making up the rest. The grapes come from the Rioja Alavesa, a cooler, higher-altitude subzone with limestone clay soils that favours elegance and freshness, and are harvested by hand. After destemming, alcoholic fermentation runs for 10 to 12 days at 26 degrees in stainless steel, followed by malolactic fermentation, which converts sharper malic acid into softer lactic acid and gives the wine its rounder, creamier texture. It then ages 14 months in French and American oak barrels, the slow oxygen exchange softening the tannin and layering in vanilla, sweet spice and the gentle leather and tobacco notes of classic Rioja. The colour is bright ruby with a touch of age. The nose is expressive and approachable, dominated by blackberry and wild blueberry, with vanilla and a savoury, spiced undertone. The palate is smooth and balanced, with ripe tannin, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and aged cheese.