Vineyards and winemaking
This Rioja Crianza combines 80% Tempranillo with 15% Garnacha and 5% Mazuelo from old vines in Rioja Alta. The vineyards lie between the Sierra de Cantabria and Sierra de la Demanda, where clay-limestone soils and the moderating influence of altitude help the grapes retain fragrance and freshness.
The bunches are picked by hand, destemmed and gently pressed before fermentation in small, temperature-controlled vats. The wine matures for 12 months in a combination of French and American oak, followed by at least six months in bottle so that fruit, spice and tannin can settle into balance.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Clear cherry red with a ruby core and a subtle garnet rim.
Nose
Red cherry, raspberry and plum are layered with vanilla, clove and a restrained note of cedar.
Palate
Medium-bodied and composed, with juicy red fruit supported by smooth tannins and bright acidity. Tempranillo provides the central cherry and plum character, Garnacha brings softness, and Mazuelo adds a savoury, lightly herbal edge. Gentle oak spice lingers on the balanced finish.
Food pairing
Serve with herb-roasted lamb, chorizo and butter-bean stew, steak and mushroom pie, or charred aubergine with smoked paprika. It also works well with Manchego or a mature farmhouse Cheddar.
Background story
Alcaudón is part of the ClÃpeo project in Rioja Alta, led by oenologist Juan Carlos Sancha with Eduardo, Miguel and Javier. The wines draw on old-vine parcels around the lower Najerilla, an area framed by two mountain ranges and long associated with elegant Rioja.
This Crianza follows the region’s classic combination of Tempranillo-led fruit and measured barrel ageing. The use of both French and American oak adds spice and polish without displacing the freshness that makes the 2020 vintage so versatile at the table.
