Hugonell Crianza, Hugonell, Rioja

Producer Note

Rioja has many different styles, from the traditional strawberry, oaky Bordeaux-influenced wines to some of the more modern, lighter styles. We searched for the best of both worlds – a fruit-driven modern style of wine at Joven level and more concentrated, typical flavours in the Crianza and Reserva levels. Carefully selected growers from this area produce the Hugonell Joven. The Ondarre winery, which is located 10km from Rioja’s capital of Logrono, is the specialist division of The Bodegas Olarra Group for producing Crianza and Reserva wines. The Bodegas Olarra Group has worked for years at the forefront of wine producing initiatives and we work closely with Olarra/Ondarre on the Hugonell Crianza and Reserva. We are delighted to offer this unique trio of wines with their original, distinctive packaging.

Vineyard

Aldeanueva de Ebro ("new hamlet of the Ebro") rises against the wind on the plateau that runs from the slopes of Mount Yerga to the River Ebro. The vineyards contain different types of soils, pebble and clay, at widely varying altitudes, which, together with intensive sun exposure and low rainfall, define the vineyards of Aldeanueva, offering great potential for quality grapes, characterised by their great health, medium-high alcohol and intense colour.

Winemaking

The grapes were fermented at controlled temperatures of between 22 to 25°C in stainless steel tanks with carefully selected yeasts. The wine was then aged for a period of 12 to 14 months in a combination of American and French oak casks, followed by four months’ bottle aging in the cellars.

Tasting Note

This is a beautifully rounded wine - the oak has allowed it to soften a touch and pick up subtle spicy, smoky and balsamic notes while preserving its youthful fruit. Easy to drink, with a smooth and pleasant finish.

Serving Suggestion

At room temperature to accompany roast meats, game and mature cheese.

Grape

Tempranillo 90%, Garnacha 5%, Mazuelo 5%