Escondite del Ardacho San José 2022

Wine Description for Escondite del Ardacho San José 2022 by Tentenublo

Colour & Appearance

Luminous purple-red in the glass, youthful and expressive.

Nose

Remarkably well-defined: cool minerality meets fresh blue fruit and invigorating herbal notes. The primary aromas take centre stage – profound and expressive, without any heaviness.

Palate

Here the full individuality of this unusual field blend reveals itself: fine-grained tannins, juicy and multi-layered, with a herbal spice derived from the whole-bunch fermentation. The wine possesses impressive grip and tension. Despite 15.5% alcohol, it never feels heavy – quite the opposite, the alcohol is perfectly integrated. The balance between fruit, freshness and structure is remarkable, even for the hot vintage of 2022.

Finish

Long and fresh, with plenty of drinkability and sustained momentum.

Terroir & Origin

From a tiny 0.3 hectare single vineyard site at 560 metres altitude at the foot of the Sierra Cantabria in Basque Rioja. The vineyard, planted in 1952, belongs to the „Escondite del Ardacho“ site series, named after a local species of lizard.

Grape Variety & Vinification

A fascinating field blend of 40% Tempranillo plus 30% Viura and Malvasia respectively – red and white wine grapes harvested and fermented together. Whole-bunch fermentation, maturation in 500-litre wooden barrels in second use. Roberto Olivan of Tentenublo is among the most innovative winemakers in the region.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Classically with Jamón Ibérico or Jamón Serrano, but also with grilled vegetables, herb-crusted lamb chops or spiced stews.

Special Characteristics

A characterful wine that demonstrates what Basque Rioja is capable of: distinctive, vibrant and of fascinating complexity. The combination of red and white wine grapes gives it a unique personality.