Valdegines 2019

The history of Artadi goes back to a cooperative project. In 1985, several producers joined forces, who were of the opinion that it is possible to produce top wines in the region without extremely long barrel aging. Under the leadership of Juan Carlos López de Lacalle, they succeeded in refining this process over the decades and to achieve remarkable successes. In 2016, it was decided to leave the DOCa Rioja, as the philosophy was too different from that of the rest of the appellation. Even today, Artadi does not produce wines of the Reserva and Gran Reserva stages. Nevertheless, they do not renounce to discreet use of wood, but without covering the terroir.

In the Single Plot Wines series, Artadi has been presenting a series of site wines that used to be part of the Pagos Viejos cuvée for a few years now.

The single plot Valdegines is located in Laguardia in Rioja Alavesa and was 100% planted with Tempranillo in 1989. The seven hectare site faces east. The site has a steep slope with a low support of sand and clay over the limestone and a terraced part that has deeper and loamier soils.

Dark, velvety, light cherry red, violet reflections

The nose is incredibly dark, deep and seductive. A little cinnamon, as well as delicate hints of coconut and black pepper lie above the fruit. Mulberry, plum as well as figs, raspberries and blackberries reveal a veritable potpourri of dark fruit flavours. Melted milk chocolate and lightly roasted coffee appear in the background. Dark, floral hints are delicately perceptible. Cloves, cardamom, juniper and a little rosemary add additional herbal and spicy scents. Despite all its intensity, it still has a certain coolness.

On the palate, it is compact and full-bodied, as expected. At the same time, it is always provided with a grippy acid structure. Literally a "mouthful of wine", but in the best possible way. In addition to the juicy fruit, it presents a very fine tannin. Valdegines 2019 shows itself linear and clear. The fruit is kept in check by the gripping acidity and clearly stretched into length. The limestone in the subsoil leaves a noticeable minerality, which gives it a good elegance. One could almost perceive it as cool. It is very balanced in the glass and offers great attributes for every wine lover and critic.