Roda 1 Rioja Reserva 2017/18, Wooden Case

The senior Roda, from the vineyards they rate highest, in the wooden case. Give it another five years if you can leave it alone.

In a nutshell Bodegas Roda is a modern winery, founded in the late 1980s. They have rapidly gained respect for their meticulous research into the Tempranillo grape variety developed via the identification of 552 clones with 20 clones ultimately selected for propagation judged by the quality they deliver in specific vineyard plots.

The terroir Traditional bush vines are dry farmed at high altitude on predominantly sandstone soil slopes, with low rainfall. Many of the Bodegas Roda vineyards are in the foothills of the mountains, but they have recently purchased land at a higher altitude to provide the best variations in the face of climate change. The Bodega owns a number of old vines up to 100 years old, that produce grapes with extraordinary qualities. Roda has plantings of the three native varieties, Tempranillo, Graciano and Garnacha, with all farming done sustainably. Medium-high layer with a red background and red rim. The nose is intense and full of red fruits. Sensations of ripe cherry and some dark fruits. This is a mineral wine with earthy notes and lots of depth. Perfectly assembled oak and great elegance. Notes of aromatic plants and floral nuances also appear. The palate is voluminous and full, exhibiting a velvety touch with good tannin. Lots of red fruits full of nuances. With a very slight bitterness from the cherry pit. Long, fresh and delicious. Serve at room temperature with venison medallions and puréed winter root vegetables.

Blend of grapes 89% Tempranillo, 6% Graciano & 5% Garnacha