Izadi Selección 2019

The Izadi Selección is one of the Bodegas Izadi gems, resulting from a rigorous selection of the best grapes grown in the old vineyards owned by the winery at the foot of the Cantabrian Mountains, in the triangle formed by Villabuena, Samaniego and Ábalos. The bush vines date from 1960 and offer fairly low yet extremely good quality yields. The slopes of calcareous-clay soil, covered in pebbles and lying at 520 metres above sea level, ensure perfect ripening; a cohesive viticulture and traditional methods for working the land bring forth grapes of great purity in aromas and flavour. On the nose the vanilla notes, fine wood and smoky hints are most seductive. Cocoa coats the fresh ripe red fruit. It has a harmonious and savoury palate, with silky tannins; it offers elegance all the way through, from the fine spicy touches to its subtle minerality. Despite the lengthy time spent ageing, the oak doesn't draw attention from the fruit, rather it adds complexity to it. As expressive as it is pleasant, it proves delightful right from its fresh entry to that long finish. The Izadi Selección is a modern Reserva, with 20% Graciano in the mix, which wisely places it mid-way between the most modern Rioja Alavesa reds and the denomination's classic Reservas. A strong commitment to elegance.