BODEGAS DE AYALA Rioja Crianza 'Vina Santurnia' - Ebro River Valley 2019 Bottle 14%abv

Description

This 30 ha estate has 8 ha of old vines near Brinas, and the family has been producing wines since the 1930's for their restaurant in the village. In 1983, Gonzalo's grandfather expanded sales to a wider market, using the Vina Santurnia label.

Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria, the vineyards of Bodegas de Ayala lie on the border between Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa. Surrounded by windy slopes, their old vines benefit from the unique calcareous clay soils at a slightly elevated altitude, distinguishing them from their well-known neighbours.

The Viña Santurnia Rioja Crianza from Bodegas de Ayala is made from 100% Tempranillo grapes that are hand harvested and undergo traditional fermentation, before ageing for at least 12 months in barrels (80% American oak and 20% French oak) and then a further 12 months in bottle. A wonderful cherry red in colour this Rioja Crianza displays ripe fruit aromas, vanilla, spices and toasted notes from the oak barrels. The palate is velvety smooth with a fresh long finish.