Vivanco Reserva 2019

Vivanco is a fourth-generation family winery based in Briones, in Rioja Alta, where it runs a largely underground cellar alongside a wine-culture museum. This Reserva blends Tempranillo with Graciano, the latter adding acidity and aromatic lift to the structure of Tempranillo. The vineyards sit on the calcareous-clay soils of Rioja Alta, where cooler nights and a continental climate slow ripening and preserve the freshness that marks the region. The wine spends twenty-four months in French and American oak, a long ageing that softens tannins through slow oxygen exchange across the staves and folds in spice and vanilla from the wood. The American oak leans toward sweeter coconut and vanilla tones, the French toward finer cinnamon and clove. The colour is deep purple-red with a brick rim that signals its time in barrel. The nose shows cinnamon, sage and red berries, with leather and a savoury edge from bottle age. The palate is medium to full, with cherry fruit, dried herbs and a measured grip. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, ideally decanted an hour ahead. It suits roast lamb and aged Manchego.