Remelluri 2018 Rioja Reserva

The grapes for this wine come from a variety of estate vineyard plots, among some of the highest in Rioja (590-850 meters), which are all vinified separately. The importer, De Maison Selections describes a defining feature of these sights on their website: "the vines are planted in terraced amphitheaters following the contours of the mountainside, which shelters them from the harsh weather on the leeward side." That is to say, in a world full of jammy Rioja, Remelluri's wines are much more moutainous in essence. There's strong, well integrated acidity here, giving lift and energy to really pristine fruit, but not without the signature reserva qualities of leather, tobacco, and dusty tannin.