Fourth W. Wines Rioja Caló DOC 2016, Spanien, Rioja, Rotwein

Rioja Alavesa: Rioja Alavesa, in the foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains, is the finest sub-region of Rioja. A patchwork of small vineyards are planted in very poor, sandy soils on the lower slopes. Very low yields, along with cooler night temperatures, create wines with intensity matched by elegance and defined structures.

Winemaking: Totally de-stemmed before a long, cool fermentation with daily pump-overs to achieve optimum fruit and colour. Sulphur additions were minimal to allow for maximum fruit expression. The wine was aged primarily in stainless steel with 10% being matured in one year old 400 litre French oak.

2016 Vintage: 2016 began with a very mild winter and excellent rains, raising soil moisture levels which later proved crucial. A very warm and dry summer became downright hot in August and really drove very high yields. For growers who controlled yields an excellent crop was harvest with ripe, balanced flavours before mid September rains. 

Tasting Note: The nose is expressive and fruit-driven with ripe berry aromas, exotic spice and darker briary notes. The palate is fresh and spicy with seductive red berry and varietal cherry cola flavours wrapped in fine tannins before a long and bright finish. This wine will be best drinking from 2017 and over the next few years. 

Vineyards: Rioja Alavesa, Soil: Sandy / Chalky Clay, Elevation: 600m, Age: 30 years, Grape Variety: 95% Tempranillo, 5% Garnacha, Winemaker: Javier Murua, Closure: Screwcap