Decanter Magazine 97/100 !!

It comes from the Valdeponzos plot, planted in 1905, which could be a Viñedo Singular – similar to a single vineyard. Refreshing and elegant, due to its altitude and the northern exposure of the plot, it is a Garnacha with lots of colour, minerality, and punch. Garnacha Tinta 100%. 360 days in French oak barrels and 360 days in bottle.

Tim Aiken says: There was no vintage of this wine in 2018, so fans have been waiting for the 2019 bottling. It comes from the Valdeponzos plot, planted in 1905, which could be a Viñedo Singular – similar to a single vineyard. Refreshing and elegant, due to its altitude and the northern exposure of the plot, it is a Garnacha with lots of colour, minerality, and punch.

I was introduced to Pedro at Bodegas Martínez Alesanco by Miguel Merino’s son, also Miguel. Sadly, it was a visit cut short by time constraints otherwise we may well have long over-stayed our welcome. Sometimes you just know when things are right. Each wine tasted in their impressive new winery was really enjoyed and followed by another equally enjoyed. Each wine with a purpose, a point of difference and a story. The brand-new tasting room has panoramic views over the red soils of the Upper Najerilla towards the Sierra Cantabria which between them largely define the microclimate and wine styles. Maybe the highlight of that first tasting together was the revelation of Maturana Tinta, a re-discovered and re-planted Rioja grape variety.

PIG TROTTERS STEW. Pedro’s Grandma Pilar’s homemade recipe. A traditional, very flavourful dish. The tomato sauce is ideal for endless bread dipping.