Altos R Pigeage Tempranillo 2018

Rioja is Spain’s premier wine region – and this special release hails from top boutique, Altos de la Guardia.

Headed up by acclaimed winemakers Jean-Marc Sauboua and Hector Gomez, Altos is known for their quality-driven approach (and has the praise from The Wine Advocate to prove it). For their juicy-smooth 2018 – which was a great vintage across Rioja – Jean-Marc and Hector carefully handpicked Tempranillo grapes from 60- to 80-year-old vines growing high in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria mountains. On these high-altitude slopes, Tempranillo enjoys ideal sun exposure and cool temperatures, factors that contribute extra aromatic and flavor intensity.

Back in their cellar, they treated the wine to a brief slumber in oak for a touch of toasty spice character. From vineyard to cellar, their high standards have paid off big – their Tempranillo has won 90+ points and gold medals galore, and this latest release already sports gold from the Concours des Vins Lyon and earned a coveted Top 100 ranking at the Wines From Spain Awards.

Look forward to all the ripe-fruited character of the superb harvest – rich blackberry and strawberry, plus smooth vanilla notes. It’s also very versatile come dinner time. We love it with lamb, but with its silky texture and easy-drinking appeal, it will be great with pork, beef, meaty fish and more.