"The 2019 Reserva Finca Martelo is a blend of 95% Tempranillo with 5% Mazuelo, Garnacha and a dash of Viura from Rioja Alavesa. It aged for 24 months in American oak (80%) and French oak (20%). Displaying a garnet hue, the aromas include cherry and sour cherry, along with blueberry and licorice notes, complemented by hints of vanilla and caramel. Indulgent, with fine-grained tannins, the delicate palate lingers long, concluding with a flavorful finish. This wine represents a distinctive and tasty Rioja style." - Joaquin Hidalgo, VINOUS MEDIA
When the owners of the storied La Rioja Alta winery wanted to make wines from the neighboring Rioja Alavesa area, they bought a whole new estate. Here, the Tempranillo and its partners Mazuelo, Garnacha, and white Viura have an extra bit of freshness, concentration and fine bed of tannin. Even more than their La Rioja Alta bottlings, the Finca Martelo can therefore take a lot of new American oak in its aging, which leads to the woodsy, spicy and sweet toasted coconut layered in amongst that dense fruit. It stands out as a bold and modern take on the Rioja template. Even at eight years of age, the developing complexity of the wine is still in its early stages. For now, give it some time to open up in the glass and pair with some boldly-flavored, hearty dishes!
When the owners of the storied La Rioja Alta winery wanted to make wines from the neighboring Rioja Alavesa area, they bought a whole new estate. Here, the Tempranillo and its partners Mazuelo, Garnacha, and white Viura have an extra bit of freshness, concentration and fine bed of tannin. Even more than their La Rioja Alta bottlings, the Finca Martelo can therefore take a lot of new American oak in its aging, which leads to the woodsy, spicy and sweet toasted coconut layered in amongst that dense fruit. It stands out as a bold and modern take on the Rioja template. Even at eight years of age, the developing complexity of the wine is still in its early stages. For now, give it some time to open up in the glass and pair with some boldly-flavored, hearty dishes!
