Seleccion Vinedos Hontza Natural Wine, Rioja Alavesa 2020
Country
Spain
Region
Rioja
Producer
Hontza
Grape(s)
Tempranillo (75%)
Garnacha (25%)
Type
Red
Style
Complex
Oaked Style
Oaked
Body Style
Medium bodied
Dry/Sweet Style
Dry
Alcohol Content
14.5%
Closure Style
Cork
Organic/Biodynamic
Biodynamic practices
Sustainable
Yes-certified sustainable
Vegetarian/Vegan
Vegetarian
Yes
Vegan
Yes
Allergens
Sulphites
Yes
Milk
No
Egg
No
Region
With nearly 65,000 hectares of vineyard, the region of La Rioja lends its name to Spain`s most widely recognised wines. Rioja is split by three major districts; Alta and Alavesa to the north, which are higher in altitude and the hot dry Oriental district to the south (previously known as Rioja Baja). Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo are the main red grape varieties used however more international varieties can also be used. The traditional aging classification system gives Rioja wines their distinctive style through the influence of extended ageing in oak barrels.
Producer
Viñedos Hontza is a family project born in 2015 out of a deep desire to close the circle between the vineyard and the glass, with wines that fully express the richness of the terroir from which they come. Certified organic they follow Biodynamic principles to take meticulous care of the earth, following similar principles in the winery with minimal interference. They see themselves as stewards of a natural process, guides who help the wine to express itself, with a respect for the natural process and drive to constantly innovate to refine techniques for unique expression.
Tasting Notes
This natural Rioja Seleccion is from Rioja Alavesa, in the Basque country. Hand selected from vineyards at 600m on clay and limestone. Made with a minimal intervention approach, and fermented spontaniously with whole clusters, which gives a fantastic floral character. The wine is aged in 300L French barrels and 500L French larger casks for 11 months. Classic with ripe black fruits, earth and spice, full bodied, but smooth and elegant, with a long finish.
Food
Fantastic with slow roast lamb, braised meats, Jamon Iberico and matured cheeses.
