Viña Real La Virgen 2020

Viña Real is part of CVNE, the Rioja house established by the Real de Asúa brothers at Haro in La Rioja Alta in 1879 and still family run five generations on. This wine is made from Tempranillo, the grape at the heart of Rioja, in D.O.Ca. Rioja. The region's continental climate, with Atlantic and Mediterranean influences and a strong day to night temperature swing, slows ripening and preserves Tempranillo's acidity and aromatic detail, while the clay limestone soils give structure and finesse. The wine is aged for around twelve months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange through the staves softens the tannins and adds spice and a light vanilla note, and malolactic fermentation rounds the acidity for a smooth, balanced palate. The colour is medium ruby with a garnet edge. The nose blends red cherry, strawberry and fresh herbs with a tapestry of forest floor and tobacco over subtle oak. The palate is medium bodied and savoury, with fine tannins, fresh acidity and a long, harmonious finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It is a flexible match for roasted and grilled meat.