'Senorio de Aztule' Azpillaga Urarte 2013
ArtisanalThe "Senorio de Aztule" of the Spanish winery Azpillaga Urarte is a red wine, result of a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha Blanco, Garnacha Tinta and Graciano. Harvested from vineyards of an average age of 35 years, the selected grapes are subjected to a carbonic maceration of 12-15 days; after the alcoholic fermentation the wine is then aged for 18 months in wooden barrels. The nose recalls aromas of dark ripe fruit, peppery hints and notes of leather
La Rioja is certainly one of the most famous wine regions in Spain, celebrated for its great red wines.
The family winery Azpillaga Urarte, now run by the two brothers Eduardo and Ignacio Perez, manages to conduct a type of viticulture and winemaking that reflects precise personal choices and that is far from the blinding lights of the stage. “Señorìo de Aztule” represents a wonderful interpretation of this terroir made of sea and land, warmth and wind, local varieties and respect for the land of belonging.
The grapes that give rise to the “Señorìo de Aztule” from the Azpillaga Urarte winery are grown organically in the municipalities of Lanciego and Cripan, in the La Rioja region: the vineyards, with 35 years of age, are located at altitudes of 450 and 630 meters, on slopes facing the ocean and characterized by a mixed soil of clays and limestone, shallow and perfectly draining. The harvest is carried out manually at full ripeness, with selection of the best bunches directly in the vineyard. The mass of the grapes consists of 90% Tempranillo, 6% Graciano and the rest Garnacha Tinta and Garnacha Blanca. Once transported to the winery, the bunches undergo carbonic maceration lasting about 12-15 days. The subsequent alcoholic fermentation is spontaneous, triggered by indigenous yeasts and the final aging period takes place in barrique for a period of 18 months. Bottling occurs without clarifications, stabilizations or filtrations.
The blend that makes up the “Señorìo de Aztule” manifests with complex aromas, intriguingly swaying between intensity and lightness: ripe dark fruit and small crunchy berries, subtle smoky and fresh vegetal notes, all enclosed in a framework of luminous clarity. The tasting gives an immediate sensation of freshness, accompanied by green hints of vegetables that extend into a lively balsamic nuance. The tannin is present and mature, the soft part emerges well balanced, accompanied by leather tones. The finish closes on mineral notes and a burst of rather dark spicy hints. A red that is a example of grace, complex yet light. To be opened with first courses with vegetable ragù, baked pork ribs and a taste of caciocavallo.