Region
With nearly 65,000 hectares of vineyard, the region of La Rioja lends its name to Spain`s most widely recognised wines. Rioja is split by three major districts; Alta and Alavesa to the north, which are higher in altitude and the hot dry Oriental district to the south (previously known as Rioja Baja). Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo are the main red grape varieties used however more international varieties can also be used. The traditional aging classification system gives Rioja wines their distinctive style through the influence of extended ageing in oak barrels.
 
Producer
Fincas de Azabache is a state of the art cooperative, founded in December 1956. The Bodegas now owns 2600 hectares of vineyards at the foot of Mount Yerga, which is at the heart of the driest sub region of Rioja; "Oriental", previously Rioja Baja. With limited risk of rot, this is an area conducive to the principles of organic viticulture, to which the Bodegas is firmly and successfully committed. The cooperative have recently invested heavily in a new winery, the fruits of which we are now seeing.
 
Tasting Notes
This excellent Rioja is well balanced with a soft seductive character typical of the Tempranillo, Garnacha and Mazuelo grapes. It is made to emphasise the fruit characteristics with a subtle hint of toasty, smokey and vanilla notes gained from one year in American oak barrels and allowed to mature 6 months in bottle before release. It exhibits a soft rounded mouthfeel, with fine silky taninns. The palate has intense plum and cherry flavours with elements of vanilla and spice that linger on the finish.
 
Food
Excellent by the glass or to accompany tapas, chorizo, braised meats and cured cheeses.
 
Media
Drinks Business Rioja Masters 2020 Silver Award. Decanter Gold medal July 2021. Awarded 90pts by James Suckling 2023.