Cortijo 2020 Rioja Tinto DOCa

Vineyard Notes: The fifteen vineyard parcels that go into the making of this great expression of Rioja Alta are located in two distinct towns, Briones and Arenzana. They were planted between 1969 and 1995. The moderately warm days and cool nights of this Continental Atlantic climate forces the grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in wines that show brighter aromas and more fruit flavors.

Winemaking notes: 100% Tempranillo. After harvest, the skins rest with the unfermented juice for five days. This pre-fermentation “cold soak” enhances the wines aromas, color and flavor. Once fermentation has taken place, the skins spend another 10 days in the tanks to extract all beneficial color and tannins. Subsequently 50% of the wine is aged for two to three months in three year old French oak barrels and 50% in stainless steel tanks. The oak regimen helps oxygenate the wine, promoting softer tannins, and a better integration and balance of all components without imparting oak flavor.

Tasting Notes: Fresh, light, and vibrant with cherries, dried herbs, black pepper, and just a hint of chocolate. The wine is easy, breezy, zippy, and completely gulpable. With its soft edges and quaffable center, this is a no-brainer for your next pizza party or barbecue.

Pairing Notes: The fresh, pure character of this wine makes this an extremely versatile wine to pair with food. This wine pairs well with white meats like pork and chicken and flaky fish like hake, cod or flounder. This has the fruit and acidity to match with red meats, as well.