Rioja 2020 - deAlto

The grapes to produce the Rioja deAlto are de-stemmed without rollers to avoid crushing and extraction of harsh tannins from seeds and skins and to allow plenty of whole berries to be retained for varietal expression. The grapes are then fermented in 25 ton stainless steel fermenters using inoculated yeasts to give a fruit driven profile without over extraction. The ferment is kept relatively cool, aided by regular pump-overs and once dryness has been reached, the vat is drained and the skins gently pressed, with press fractions kept separate to avoid over extraction and harsh tannins.

The Tempranillo and Garnacha used for this wine come from the best vineyards around Azagra in Rioja Baja. The vines are predominantly grown on clay-limestone soil, and minimal intervention is practised. Grapes are all hand-picked in early October.

deAlto Rioja y Más pays tribute to all the Spanish world : the food, the people and of course the wine… Master of Wine Giles Cooke, has led the winemaking team to craft a range that illustrates the brilliant potential of Rioja, Navarra and La Mancha as well as the quality of fruit that these regions can deliver when respectful, sustainable techniques are maintained. Drawing on the revered, in-depth knowledge of Paul Shinnie and the technical skills of Marta Juega Rivera, these wines offer a tantalising taste of contemporary Spain. Over a decade’s worth of dedication, travel and experimentation have culminated in the creation of deAlto Rioja y Más. Responding to the need for a more sustainable future, the wineries harness the best vineyards to produce wines that are connected by a similar spirit of adventure, experimentation, creativity and commitment to sustainable wine production. The deAlto Rioja y Más portfolio is an incredible patchwork of vineyards, villages and micro-climates from around Spain.

deAlto, DOCa Rioja: Established in the Rioja Oriental sub-zone of Rioja, deAlto is an unconventional producer of brilliant wines including deAlto Tradicional, El Primero & La Planta Magica.
Aurkitu, DO Navarra: Aurkitu means to “discover” in Basque, and when they came upon these beautiful vineyards of the Baja Montaña in Navarra, they had stumbled upon one of the great treasures of Spain.
Campo Flores, La Mancha: Campo Flores celebrates not only the rich cultural tapestry of Southern Spain but also its ability to grow affordable fruit that is both delicious and organic.