Quintanilla 2021

Wine Description for Quintanilla 2021 by Artadi

Colour & Appearance

Luminous purple-red with youthful freshness in the glass.

Nose

Initially closed and austere, yet of compelling intensity. The first nose presents itself as chalky-mineral, almost ascetic. With air contact, the bouquet unfolds dramatically: ripe plums, liquorice and a fine chocolate note emerge, without masking the earthy minerality. Patience and decanting are essential.

Palate

The impressive freshness of the 2021 vintage dominates the attack. Earthy minerality leads, whilst the fruit initially holds back – a purist approach that requires time. With increasing aeration, cool, dark fruit aromatics develop, carried by chalky tannins and dense structure. A peppery spice runs through the wine and lends it tension.

Finish

Long, mineral and spicy with lingering freshness. The chalky texture remains present and underscores the uncompromising character of this vineyard site wine.

Terroir & Origin

Two hectares in Elvillar, in the higher-altitude, cooler part of Rioja Alavesa at the foot of the Sierra Cantabria. East-facing, with 74-year-old Tempranillo vines on clay and limestone soils. The cool location shapes the mineral character and vibrant freshness.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Tempranillo, biodynamically certified. Destemmed grapes, spontaneously fermented. Maturation in oak barrels of varying sizes and ages – a philosophy that places terroir above winemaking technique.

Food Pairing Recommendations

This wine demands food: pan-fried blood sausage with lentil salad, braised beef, grilled lamb rack or even a robust wild garlic cream soup. The mineral structure calls for hearty, earthy flavours.

Special Characteristics

The most purist and challenging vineyard site wine from Artadi – Bauhaus rather than Baroque. Less expressive than San Lazaro, less playful than Valdegines, yet with a fascinating, uncompromising personality. A wine for the patient and terroir enthusiasts.