Vega del Rayo Vendimia Seleccionada, Rioja

Tasting Note
This Rioja has attractive spice, ripe plum and cherry aromas with a deep colour. Richly flavoured and substantial, it is fruit dominant with a smoky, spicy dimension from six months in oak.

Grapes

70% Tempranillo

20% Mazuelo

10% Graciano

Producer Details
Grapes are sourced from this family company's 200 hectares around Haro and Briones in Rioja Alta and the quality of the range stems from the excellence of the fruit from these vineyards. The first vintage was 2003 and the aim is to produce classic styles of Rioja which combine modern fruit with real substance and quality at sensible prices.

In the Vineyard
The fruit is hand harvested in early October. Predominantly from vineyards in Rioja Alta, around the towns of Haro and Briones.

In The Winery
Fermentation in stainless steel tanks at 25-30° C with twice daily pump-overs. After 12 days fermentation on the skins the wine is gently pressed and racked to stainless steel tanks for malolactic fermentation. The wine is then racked to a mixture of American and Russian oak barrels for 6 months maturation before bottling.

Food Recommendations

Perfect with a smoky barbecued steak with patatas bravas (spicy tapas potatoes), or a chunk of Manchego cheese. Or else hearty sausages and mash.

Awards & Press
2008 Vintage: Sommelier Wine Awards 2011 - Bronze
2008 Vintage: IWSC 2011 - Bronze
2007 Vintage: Sommelier Wine Awards 2010 - Silver list
2007 Vintage: IWSC 2010 - Silver
2007 Vintage: IWC 2010 - Bronze
2007 Vintage: Decanter World Wine Awards 2010 - Bronze
2008 Vintage: "With good fruit character on the nose, there are juicy fruits on the palate with gentle spiciness and fine, drying tannins. 'Young but good,'
said an approving Sara Bachiorri." Sommelier Wine Awards 2011, Judges Comments
2007 Vintage: "Deep aromas of blackberry and spice on a soft, plummy palate with a smooth finish." Decanter World Wine Awards Judges Comments,
Decanter magazine , October 2010
2007 Vintage: "A clean, modern and simple Rioja with floral notes, spice and chocolate. Soft and juicy." Sommelier Wine Awards 2010, Judges comments