Wines Rioja Artadi - Village Wine Vinas de Laguardia - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Artadi’s 2020 Viñas de Laguardia, hailing from Rioja, is a superb expression of the region’s terroir and the house’s philosophy. This cuvée is crafted predominantly from Tempranillo, sourced from carefully selected vines around the historic village of Laguardia, perched in the heart of Rioja Alavesa. The 2020 vintage was marked by a fine balance between freshness and ripening, resulting in wines of remarkable aromatic purity and structure. Vinification at Artadi is carried out with meticulous respect for the grape’s integrity, employing spontaneous fermentations and a gentle touch with oak to allow the fruit and terroir to shine.

Rioja Alavesa is the smallest subregion within Rioja, prized for its higher altitude and cooler climate compared to the rest of the appellation. The region sits on chalky clay-limestone soils that bring finesse and a vibrant minerality to the wines. While Rioja has a winemaking tradition dating back centuries, houses like Artadi are at the vanguard, producing modern, elegant interpretations that respect tradition yet innovate. The combination of the Atlantic influences and the protection of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains creates a unique microclimate ideal for Tempranillo, yielding expressive, ageworthy wines.

This Rioja red is best paired with savoury dishes, particularly those that play to its depth and freshness. Consider grilled lamb cutlets seasoned with rosemary, a classic pairing in the region, or slow-cooked beef cheeks. Mushroom risotto and roasted red peppers, both staples of Spanish cuisine, underscore the earthy and fruity nuances of the wine. Mature Manchego or Idiazabal cheese also provide a harmonious match.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour will help it open up, revealing layers of red and black fruit, subtle spice, and elegant tannins. This bottling is approachable now but has the potential to age gracefully for several more years if you prefer extra complexity and integration.