Rioja DOCa Garnacha 2019

Vineyards and winemaking

This limited Rioja is made from Garnacha vines more than a century old, grown at high altitude in the Sonsierra area of Rioja Alta. Limestone-rich soils, a cool setting and organic cultivation help the low-yielding vines retain freshness while concentrating the red-fruit and savoury character of the variety.

The grapes were picked by hand into small 15kg boxes and fermented in French oak. The wine then remained on its fine lees for between 11 and 13 months, a measured élevage that builds texture and detail without obscuring the perfume or mineral definition drawn from the old vines.

Tasting notes

Appearance

Clear ruby red with a lightly garnet rim, showing brightness as well as depth.

Nose

Fragrant wild strawberry, red cherry and raspberry are layered with rose petal, dried thyme and a discreet note of sweet pepper. Fine oak brings hints of clove and cedar without overwhelming the fruit.

Palate

Supple and expansive, with ripe red berries at the centre and a thread of stony freshness running beneath. The tannins are fine-grained, the oak neatly absorbed, and the finish long and savoury with red cherry, herbs and gentle spice.

Food pairing

A graceful match for herb-roasted lamb rump, pork tenderloin with quince, wood-roasted peppers with Manchego, or pigeon breast with lentils. Its perfume and freshness also work well with aubergine baked with tomato and smoked paprika.

Background story

Clípeo Wines was founded in 2016 by Eduardo, Miguel and Javier together with oenologist and university professor Juan Carlos Sancha. Their work in Rioja centres on precision organic viticulture, small parcels and distinctive varieties, with wines made in limited quantities to express the cooler reaches of the region.

The team restored the historic Cueva La Alcaldía cellars, carved into rock and naturally regulated by their humidity and ventilation. Traditional open pressing vats, underground cisterns and vaulted spaces remain part of the site, connecting this old-vine Garnacha with a much longer local winemaking history.