Rioja DOCa Garnacha 2019

Vineyards

This wine is crafted from Garnacha vines over 100 years old, situated in the high-altitude Sonsierra region of Rioja Alta. The limestone-rich soils and organic practices provide a balanced and vibrant profile that captures the essence of this historic terroir.

Winemaking

Hand-harvested and fermented in French oak barrels, the wine undergoes 11-13 months of aging on fine lees. This careful process enhances complexity while allowing the Garnacha’s natural character to shine.

Tasting notes

Appearance

Bright ruby with violet highlights, showcasing both clarity and depth.

Nose

The aroma reveals layers of ripe red berries, floral notes, and subtle spices, a testament to the wine’s elegance and the maturity of the old vines.

Palate

Full-bodied yet refined, with flavours of red cherry, raspberry, and hints of pepper. The wine’s fine tannins and balanced acidity lead to a long, mineral-infused finish.

Food pairing

Ideal for pairing with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and robust tapas, which bring out the wine’s complexity and rich character.

Background story

Founded in 2016 by Eduardo, Miguel, Javier, and the distinguished oenologist and University Professor Juan Carlos Sancha, Clípeo Wines represents a fresh yet deeply rooted approach to winemaking in Rioja’s Sonsierra region. Sancha, a pioneer in the rediscovery of ancient grape varieties, has guided Clípeo Wines toward a philosophy of precision organic viticulture.

Their small-scale production ensures a hands-on, meticulous approach to every step of the winemaking process, from the hand-harvesting of grapes in 15kg boxes to minimal intervention techniques in the cellar. The result is a collection of wines that is as rare as it is refined, produced in limited quantities (a few thousand bottles of each) to highlight the unique characteristics of their terroir. 

Clípeo Wines has breathed new life into the historic Cueva La Alcaldía cellars, carved into the rock where natural humidity and ventilation provide ideal conditions for aging. Here, ancient methods meet modern sensibilities, as the team preserves the winery’s traditional open pressing vats, underground cisterns, and vaults.