
Tempranillo
75cl * 14.5% ABV * Rioja, Spain
A unique single-vineyard Rioja of incredibly quality, the Norte vineyard, at an altitude of 720 metres, is probably one of the highest vineyards of the Rioja appellation. It sits on clay-lime soil over deep limestone bedrock in the direct line of northerly winds. These features give Pujanza Norte notable freshness and acidity which are maintained one vintage after another due to the consistency of the vineyard. Consistently rated as one of Spain’s ‘First Growths’ by Tim Atkin in his annual Rioja Report, the 2018 vintage was voted as a Decanter wine of the year 2022 as well as receiving Tim Atkin's Spanish wine of the year award.
Matured for 12 months in French oak barrels and then a further 12 months in concrete vats, this is bright, intense cherry-red in colour. It has a subtle, fruity character with wild berries, spices and very well-integrated wood. Its minerality is undoubtedly influenced by the lime soils and limestone bedrock from which it comes. The palate is full, with firm but not aggressive tannins. Powerful and lively, but at the same time showing great balance between body, acidity and alcohol. A fruity aftertaste, highly expressive and persistent, it will pair beautifully with slow cooked lamb or wild mushrooms dishes.
Drinking window: Now - 2030.
"The wine has a rare combination of power and elegance, of ripeness and freshness that denotes a special place. Like the rest of reds, it fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel, with malolactic in those same containers followed by 12 months in French oak barrels (slightly less than in the past) and eight months in concrete. " 96 pints, Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate (October 2020)
"100% Tempranillo from single plot at 720 m above sea level in Laguardia. Spontaneous alcoholic fermentation and malolactic conversion in stainless-steel vats. Aged in French oak barrels for 12 months, then 8 months in concrete vats. 11,000 bottles. Tasted blind. Quite generous in fruit and concentration, and well-judged wood. Tannins with sweetness and balanced with freshness. Quite full of vibrant fruit. Very good use of oak, present and elegant. Lots of juiciness and quality of fruit in a powerful rioja style. Drink 2021 - 2030." 17.5 points, Ferran Centelles, JancisRobinson.com (March 2021)
"Really clear and beautiful on the nose with blackberries and blueberries, as well as some chocolate and lavender undertones. Medium body, firm and silky tannins and a fresh finish. Lovely texture at the end. Drink now or hold." 93 points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com (September 2021)