Viña Salceda Reserva 2020

Viña Salceda Reserva is a Rioja red from Bodegas Viña Salceda in Elciego, in the heart of Rioja Alavesa. It blends mostly Tempranillo with a small share of Graciano, the latter adding acidity, colour and an aromatic lift that gives the wine freshness and ageing potential. The fruit comes from low-yielding vineyards on clay limestone soils, farmed sustainably with minimal intervention. The Alavesa sits under Atlantic and mountain influence, where cool nights and a wide day to night temperature swing slow ripening and hold acidity, the foundation of the savoury, classic style. As a Reserva, the wine spends eighteen months in French and American oak, the French lending fine spice and the American a sweeter vanilla and coconut tone, with bottle age rounding the tannin into a smoother texture. Malolactic fermentation softens the acidity. It is intense ruby red, showing aromas of ripe plum, blackberry and red cherry over vanilla, sweet spice and a balsamic, leathery note. The palate is medium to full bodied and savoury, with fine tannin, fresh acidity and a long, spiced finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It pairs with roast lamb, grilled beef and mushroom dishes.