Vina Lobera Crianza DOCa. Rioja, 2018

This is a traditional Rioja style with some dusty oak notes and savoury meaty characters, including Mazuelo in the blend. These characters are complemented by dark fruits, blackcurrants and sour blackberry flavours producing a supple, dense wine with fine texture. Grapes were grown in Rioja Alta, fermented, then matured in American oak for 12 months in 3- to 6-year-old barrels. 2018 saw heavy frosts, snow and abundant rainfall in winter followed by a cold and wet spring. A warm summer allowed for a long, slow ripening period, with harvest taking place from September 19 to October 26, producing good quality wines.