Altanza, Rioja Reserva Familia 2019 Vermouth

Altanza, Rioja Reserva Familia 2019 VermouthBalanced aromatic expression makes this an inviting wine from the first sniff, with cherry, liquorice, black pepper, cloves and tobacco all suggested by the oak aged Tempranillo fruit. Fresh but powerful, rounded and with full flavours where the French oak influence and ripe fruit merge perfectly, this is a connoisseur's Rioja at an approachable price.

It’s full-bodied and layered

500 cases made

ageworthy Muscadets of Les Frères Couillaud in the Muscadet Sèvre et Maine region of the Loire Valley

March 2021 ‘The nose is fruity and offers good definition

May 2019 ‘This is not generous but is hugely concentrated and opens with a Margaux floral flourish

Cinsault and Mourvèdre

40% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc that saw a long maceration (30-40 days) and 18 months in 80% new French oak

the puzzle will take you through Bordeaux's mosaic of subregions and appellations

The tannins are a little overly tight on the finish - you can feel the juice slightly strangled by them - but it's clearly a wine that's built to last

and are balanced

Dense tannins and good structure make this a luxurious accompaniment to game

with an admirable core of red and black currant paste and bitter plum fruit inlaid with notes of tobacco