Artesa Rioja Crianza (Spain)

Get your hands on this forward, attractive, modern, style of Crianza! It gives lifted aromatics of violets and bramble fruit complemented by perfumed jasmine, pepper and spice notes. Substantial on the palate, with black fruit, ripe tannins and a gently toasty, savoury finish.

The wine is made from Tempranillo grapes cultivated on hillside vineyards 600 metres above sea level in the best parts of Rioja Oriental. The vineyards have clay stone soil with some sandy areas. 80% of the vines are trained in the trellis method and 20% are bush trained. The grapes are chilled for several hours before temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel. The wine is matured for a minimum of 12 months in American oak, plus one year in bottle, before release.

Match this wine with casseroles, red and white meats and mature cheeses.