La Condenada 2023

Wine Description for La Condenada 2023 by Artuke

Character

„La Condenada” – the Condemned – bears its name with proud wilfulness. This wine from the house of Artuke, one of the most exciting addresses in modern Rioja, stands for a style that deliberately breaks free from convention: less oak veneer, more earth, more truth. At 14.0 % vol., it is powerful without being exhausting – a wine that shows character.

Terroir & Origin

The grapes come from Rioja Alta, that part of the appellation where continental climate and calcareous soils give wines structure and freshness. Rioja is not a monolithic region – it is a mosaic of vineyard sites, elevations and soils, and Artuke masterfully understands how to translate these nuances into the bottle. La Condenada is an expression of this conviction: provenance before recipe.

Grape Variety & Vinification

The unusual blend of Tempranillo, Graciano and Palomino is a statement in itself. Whilst Tempranillo provides aromatic depth and structure, Graciano brings vibrant acidity and spice into play. The involvement of Palomino – a variety more commonly associated with Sherry – lends the wine an unexpected, almost Mediterranean lightness and texture. Artuke favours a craftsman-like minimalist approach to ageing that respects the character of the vintage and vineyard site rather than imposing upon it.

Food Pairing Suggestions

A wine of this character demands the table and company. It harmonises beautifully with grilled lamb loin, Chorizo al vino or a rustic Cocido madrileño. It also unfolds its full potential alongside aged Manchego or a plate of Iberian ham. For the adventurous, serve it with braised game dishes – the spice of the Graciano does sterling work here.