Viuda Negra Nunca Jamás 2023

Viuda Negra Nunca Jamás is a monovarietal Tempranillo from D.O.Ca. Rioja, made by Bodegas Javier San Pedro Ortega. The winery is run by the fifth generation of the San Pedro family, with Javier San Pedro Ortega as winemaker, and farms more than a hundred hectares around the village of Laguardia in Rioja Alavesa. This is a sub-zone of limestone-rich clay soils at altitude, where cool nights hold on to acidity and give Tempranillo its bright red-fruit character. The Viuda Negra range is designed to be fresh and easy drinking, and this bottling shows it: short, careful handling keeps the fruit forward and the tannins soft. The wine is aged in wood under respectful, sustainable farming, with the oak kept light so it frames rather than masks the fruit. Expect a vivid cherry-red colour, a nose of raspberry, red cherry and a touch of liquorice, and a juicy medium-bodied palate with fresh acidity and supple tannin. The finish is clean and inviting rather than heavy. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, and a short chill suits warmer weather. It is happy alongside grilled pork, roast chicken and lightly spiced tomato-based dishes.