Hacienda Lopez de Haro Crianza (75cl, 13.5%)

A Rioja Alta red wine from Bodega Classica in San Vicente de la Sonsierra, blending Tempranillo, Garnacha and Graciano and aged 16 to 18 months in oak. The vineyards sit on poor Ebro terrace soils that restrict yields and concentrate flavour. The blend is 90% Tempranillo, 7% Garnacha and 3% Graciano, fermented spontaneously with native yeasts at a controlled 24°C before ageing in French and American oak barrels. Ripe blackberry and spiced red berries lead the nose, with iron-tinged plum, blood orange, sage leaf, caramel and faint eucalyptus. The palate is juicy and spice-driven, with clove, anisette, dark cherry, cassis, dark chocolate and a mineral edge. The finish is medium, with zesty acidity and lingering baking spice, dark chocolate and earthiness.