Herencia De Baco Crianza Rioja (75cl, 13.5%)

A Tempranillo from Rioja, Spain, produced by Bodegas Forcada. The winery's vineyards sit at 600–800 metres elevation inside a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve, and it is the only winery authorised to display the "La Rioja, Biosphere Reserve" logo on its label. The grapes undergo pre-fermentation maceration in stainless steel tanks, followed by controlled-temperature fermentation for 10 days. The wine then ages for 12 months in near-new American and French oak barrels before bottle ageing completes the Crianza requirements. On the nose, intense spice leads into ripe dark fruit, with roasted undertones, chocolate and subtle cedar. The palate is fruit-forward with ripe plum and berry, then roasted nuances, vanilla and balsamic undertones, framed by well-structured tannins. The finish is medium-to-long, with a velvety grip and trailing notes of coffee, cedar and fruit candy sweetness.