Vina

Vina Ijalba Rioja Graciano

£18.50

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Description

Rarely found, Graciano is an enticingly aromatic grape that makes wonderful wine.

Rioja is known for producing some of the best Spanish wine, and this 2012 Viña Ijalba is a classic example of Spanish quality and care. The wine is made from Graciano grapes, which account for just 0.04% of the total grapes planted in the region. Graciano grapes are famous for the deep, aromatic wines they produce, with strong hints of spices and long length. On the first sip, you’ll detect hints of quinces and herby fruits, making this an attractive vintage. As you delve deeper, you’ll notice floral aromas, a full body, and notes of sage that provide an elegant, full-bodied feel. Best of all, it’s organic!

  • 92 Points – Guia Penin 2019 (2017 vintage)
  • Gold Medal – Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2019 (2016 vintage)
  • Silver Medal – The Drinks Business Organic Masters 2018 (2016 vintage)
  • Silver Medal – Mundus Vini 2017 (2015 vintage)

Taste

Luscious cherry fruits, Oak spice and liquorice

Aroma

Blackthorn and cherry, Liquorice and pepper

Dionisio Ruiz planted his first vines back in 1975 with vineyards located on a former old open-cast mine. The revival of these once production poor soils into healthy, organic soils forms the backbone of the Viña Ijalba estate today. Viña Ijalba was the first winery in Rioja to commit to organic production. Not only that, they’ve also revived the land for growing indigenous and now rare Riojan varietals, like Maturana Blanca, Maturana Tinta and Tempranillo Blanco. They lay claim to being the first winery in Rioja to produce a wine made exclusively of 100% Graciano, which is traditionally used as a blending partner with the celebrated variety of the region, Tempranillo. Located just a five minutes drive from the capital of Rioja, Logroño they produce a far reaching range of wines from the young, fresh and fruity Joven styles to the more traditional aged wines of Crianza and Reserva. Both Crianza and Reserva wines must spend a minimum of one year in barrel, with Reserva having a minimum ageing requirement between oak and bottle of three years before release. 70% of their grapes are harvested by hand. Not only has Viña Ijalba managed to fully revive a former open-cast mine for organic winemaking, but they’re revival of almost forgotten local varietals that bring a distinctive element to their wines has also been quite impressive.

Location

Reviews

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  1. Unique

    Graciano is the grape which i’d never heard of. One of our guests said this was too ‘savoury’, but I really loved the wild, herbal style of this wine.

    little denby

  2. Phwoar! Punchy flavour that settles once it has had some air. Strong savoury flavours. Ripe rhubarb and warming anise.

    xkimberleyx (verified owner)