2018 Gran Dominio, Rioja Reserva - Liberty

The Gran Dominio wines are made with a precision that demonstrates winemaker María Barúa’s eye for detail and understanding of her home region. The Crianza is 100% Tempranillo, aged for 12 months in American oak from forests in Ohio. It has lovely aromas of juicy red cherries, a touch of spice and smooth tannins. The Reserva is predominantly Tempranillo with a touch of Mazuelo and is aged for 12 months in a combination of French and American oak and a further 24 months of bottle ageing before release. It displays aromas of ripe red and black fruit coupled with hints of vanilla.

The Tempranillo and Mazuelo grapes are sourced from gowers in the Rioja Alta or Rioja Alavesa subregions. The vines are a mix of bush vines and trellis trained and have are between 30 to 40 years old and produce low yields of fruit packed full of flavour and capable of standing up to extended periods of ageing in barrel.

The 2018 vintage in Rioja was marked by unpredictable weather conditions which meant that diligence was required in the vineyards to maintain the health of the grapes. Winter was cooler than usual with high levels of rainfall and a cool, wet spring delayed bud burst and caused some issues with mildew in the region. Milder summer temperatures than average meant that the harvest took place in mid October, slightly later than usual. The grapes harvested were characterised by a marked freshness, precise aromatics and lower potential alcohol levels than usual thanks to the cooler than usual conditions throughout the year.

After fermentation the wine was aged for 12 months; six months in American oak, from Ohio, followed by a further six months in French oak, from Vosgues. The wine then underwent 24 months bottle ageing prior to release.

Red ruby in colour. The nose has aromas of red fruit blended with notes of spice and vanilla from the oak. On the palate, it is fleshy and rich with a long finish.