Artuke Rioja Finca de los Locos 2021

Luxardo cherry, blackberry jam, balsamic syrup, toasted fennel seeds and claro cigar wrapper

Arturo and Keke’s grandfather planted these vines in 1950 at an elevation that his neighbors told him he was crazy, hence the name “plateau of the crazy.” At nearly 2000 FAS this vineyard is windswept and cold, so the fruit here is picked later than almost any in Rioja. The blend is 80% Tempranillo and 20% Graciano, aged in a combination of foudre and 15% new French oak barrels.

Thanks to the long hang time this wine delivers an impressive sense of fruit, with notes of Luxardo cherry, blackberry jam, balsamic syrup, toasted fennel seeds and claro cigar wrapper.  On the palate it is very polished and has great texture and shows superb potential. Drink 2024-2031.