Clos Ibai Rioja Tinto 2022

Clos Ibai Rioja Tinto is a Rioja Alavesa red co-fermented with a fifth of white grapes, in the manner of the region's old mixed plantings.

Rioja Alavesa is the northern sliver of Rioja, where clay and limestone soils at higher altitude tend to give reds of lift rather than sheer weight. Daniel Frías farms small holdings of 40-year-old vines around Baños de Ebro and Laguardia, sitting at about 450 metres and certified organic. The blend runs to 70% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano, with a substantial 20% of white varieties—Garnacha Blanca, Viura and Malvasía—an approach that predates the varietal separation of modern Rioja and still survives in old field blends. The fruit is harvested by hand and fermented as whole clusters in small open vats, then pressed and matured for ten months across a mix of stainless steel, concrete and neutral oak, so the wood contributes structure rather than flavour. The result sits closer to a fresh, perfumed red than to a traditional oak-aged crianza.

Drinking well now and over the next four or five years. Serve slightly cool at 16°C with grilled lamb, jamón or a mushroom rice.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.