Vineyards and winemaking
Canterabuey comes solely from a 3.5-hectare vineyard planted to Garnacha in 1975 between Aldeanueva de Ebro and Alfaro. Clay-limestone soils, generous sunshine and naturally moderated yields give concentrated fruit while the mature vines retain the variety's perfume and savoury Mediterranean character.
The grapes are selected from the estate's own vineyard and the wine matures for 16 months in barrel. Oak builds structure and spice around the ripe fruit without erasing the identity of the site; production is limited, in keeping with Real Agrado's parcel-focused Colección Raíces.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Intense garnet-red with a deep, clear core.
Nose
Blackberry and blackcurrant are joined by dried rosemary, liquorice, clove and elegant toasted notes.
Palate
Powerful and expansive, with ripe black fruit, warm spice and firm but rounded tannins. Garnacha gives breadth and generosity, while a mineral, herbal thread keeps the palate defined. The finish is broad, dry and persistent. Stand upright before serving and assess before decanting, as development may vary between mature bottles.
Food pairing
Pair with roast shoulder of lamb, wood-fired pork with peppers, venison sausages or a smoky chickpea and aubergine stew. Its rich fruit and herbal detail also suit a well-aged Manchego.
Background story
Canterabuey was Real Agrado's first vineyard, planted in 1975 and surrounded by almond trees in Rioja Oriental. Its adaptation to the dry, sunny landscape made it an obvious site through which to express old-vine Garnacha with particular precision.
The wine became the first in DOCa Rioja to be certified as a Viñedo Singular, a category created to recognise wines with a demonstrable connection to an individual vineyard. Its name, limited production and character all belong to this one historic parcel.
