Viniou Reviews
Altos R Pigeage Graciano 2020 is a striking red wine from the renowned Rioja DO in Spain, crafted from the Graciano grape variety. Graciano, often used as a blending component in Rioja, stands out here in its pure form, offering a rare insight into its aromatic intensity and elegant structure. The 2020 vintage reflects a balanced growing season, resulting in a wine that combines vibrant acidity with depth of flavour. While details of the vinification process for this particular cuvée are minimal, “pigeage” refers to the traditional practice of punching down the cap during fermentation, promoting a gentle extraction of colour, tannin, and aroma, while preserving the freshness so characteristic of Graciano.
Rioja as a region is celebrated for its long winemaking history and diversity of terroirs. The area benefits from a convergence of Atlantic, Mediterranean, and continental climates, offering moderate rainfall and pronounced diurnal temperature variation. Soils vary from limestone and clay in the Alta to iron-rich clays in the Oriental, contributing to complexity and longevity in the wines. Rioja’s historical reputation is built on Tempranillo, but Graciano is increasingly cherished for its aromatic lift and capacity to age, though it remains relatively scarce and challenging to grow due to low yields.
Altos R Pigeage Graciano 2020, with its fragrant nose of wild berries, violets, and subtle spices, pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Its bright acidity and refined tannins make it a perfect companion for roasted lamb shoulder, grilled duck breast, or Iberico pork. For a regional touch, try it alongside Rioja-style lamb chops (chuletas al sarmiento) grilled over vine cuttings, or embutidos such as chorizo riojano. The wine’s freshness also lends itself to robust vegetarian fare like mushroom-stuffed piquillo peppers or roasted aubergine with smoked paprika.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Graciano at 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes before tasting can help open up its aromatic complexity and soften its youthful structure. Enjoy over the next five to eight years for further development in bottle.
