La Poza de Ballesteros 2022

Wine Description for La Poza de Ballesteros 2022 by Artadi

Colour & Appearance

Luminous cherry red with violet reflections – clear, transparent and brimming with youthful freshness.

Nose

The bouquet is immediately present and seductive: black cherry and blackberry form the aromatic backbone, complemented by fine spice and an earthy, cool minerality. The fruit never feels opulent, but rather precise and focused. Barely any decanting time needed – this wine speaks from the very first moment.

Palate

Fuller-bodied and denser than Artadi’s other single vineyard sites, without tipping into heaviness. Fine-grained tannins, a silky texture and vibrant acidity form a harmonious triangle. Black fruit, cool dark minerality and juiciness blend seamlessly together. A red wine with genuine charm and broad appeal.

Finish

Long, soft and with lingering mineral freshness. The finish is round and inviting – no sharp aftertaste, but rather an elegant, harmonious conclusion.

Terroir & Origin

The single vineyard site La Poza de Ballesteros comprises just 1.2 hectares in the municipality of Elvillar, Rioja Alavesa, at around 600 metres elevation at the foot of the Sierra Cantabria. The westerly aspect ensures ripe grapes through warm afternoon sunshine – whilst maintaining the cool overall climate of this altitude. The loamy-sandy, calcareous soil gives the wine its characteristic minerality.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Pure Tempranillo from 65-year-old vines, cultivated with organic certification. Spontaneous fermentation after destemming, aged in used, larger oak barrels – a deliberate stylistic shift by Artadi towards greater clarity and unadulterated elegance. At 14.5% vol. powerful, yet not heavy-handed.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Excellent with grilled lamb rack, Ibérico pork fillet or a classic cochinillo asado. Also a delightful match with mature Manchego or mushroom risotto with truffle oil.

Special Features

Artadi is regarded as one of Spain’s pioneering addresses and has transformed Rioja from cellar-driven to terroir-focused winemaking. La Poza de Ballesteros is the fullest-bodied chapter in Artadi’s single vineyard trilogy – and simultaneously the most approachable. A wine that captivates purists and connoisseurs alike.