Item Number: 6808 UPC: 0810411010211

Country: Spain
Region: La Rioja (Spain) Sub Region: Rioja Alta
Appellation/AVA: Rioja DOCa
Estate Grown Wine: Yes
Vintage: 2012
Grape(s): 100% Tempranillo
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750ml Pack: 12
Closure: Cork
Alc by Vol(%): 13.5
Viticulture: Practicing Organic
Elevation: 1,865 feet
Location, Soil, Climate: The fifteen vineyard parcels that go into the making of this great expression of Rioja Alta (Zone 3) are located in two distinct towns, Briones and Arenzana, both sited at approximately 568 meters elevation. In Briones, the soils are thin red clay and sandy limestone with small particles of thin clay. In Arenzana the soils are sandy with alluvial sediment. The climate conditions of this area are very beneficial to wine growing. The average temperature from April-October is 61.5ºF with 18.3 inches of yearly rainfall. 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: After harvest, the skins mix with the juice for five days at 45°F. This pre-fermentation “cold soak” enhances the wines aromas, color and flavor. Once fermentation has taken place, the Tempranillo skins spend another 10 days in tanks to extract all beneficial color and tannins. Subsequently the wine is aged for 5-6 months in 3 year old oak barrels. This oak regiment helps oxygenate the wine, promoting softer tannins, and a better integration and balance of all vinous components without imparting oak flavor.

Pairing Suggestions: The fresh, pure character of 'Cortijo' Tinto 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.

Robert M. Parker, JR (on 'Cortijo' Tinto): "I cannot think of another Rioja at this price level that offers this much character and fruit"