Ysios Reserva 2019

Ysios is produced in Laguardia, in Rioja Alavesa, from 75 hectares of 30 year old Tempranillo spread over eight plots around Laguardia and Elvillar. The vineyards sit on limestone rich clay soils at the foot of the Sierra de Cantabria, which shelters them from northern winds and gives the marked day to night temperature swing that holds acidity and builds colour and aromatic depth. Most of the fruit ferments in stainless steel at a controlled 28 to 30 degrees, then macerates on the skins for 25 to 30 days to draw out colour and tannin. Ageing runs 14 months across French, American and Hungarian oak, a mix that layers French spice and grain with the sweeter vanilla and coconut of American wood. The 2019 is fragrant, with red and black fruit woven through gentle spice, a touch of vanilla and a savoury, leathery note from barrel ageing. The palate is medium to full, the tannins ripe and the finish even. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees and decant 30 minutes ahead. It suits roast lamb, grilled red meat and cured ham.