2021 Dominio del Challao, Challao Garnacha, Rioja 1x750ml

Robert Parker 95

“The super balsamic 2021 Challao Garnacha has a bright ruby color in this cooler and wetter year when the Garnacha really delivered what they expect from the grape. This comes from silty and chalky soils, the higher-altitude vineyard they work at some 620 meters above sea level, which was planted in 1989. It fermented with indigenous yeasts in concrete with some full clusters and matured in 2,000-liter oak foudre for 20 months. It has a moderate 12.5% alcohol, a low pH of 3.21 and an impressive nose with an explosion of thyme, lavender and rosemary, hints of camphor intermixed with fresh berry fruit and a spicy twist, developing notes of blood orange peel with time in the glass. It’s medium-bodied and fine-boned, with very fine tannins; it’s a little fuller than the initial 2020, with more structure and clout, not as ethereal. 3,102 bottles, 25 magnums and 10 double magnums were filled in August 2023.” [Luis Gutierrez, 02/29/2024]

Anticipated maturity: 2024-2030