2021 Dominio del Challao, Challao, Rioja 1x750ml

Robert Parker 97

“Always more reticent, a little shy and closed, subtle and elegant but with clout and energy, the 2021 Challao is exclusively from the 1.2-hectare vineyard, called Las Silentes, in the cooler and higher-altitude part of the village. In 2021, this vineyard was even more different from the other one that now (starting in 2021) contributes to Angelita del Challao. So, this is now a single-vineyard red, from that plot that was planted in 1945 with a field blend of 75% Tempranillo and the rest Garnacha, Mazuelo, Viura, Garnacha Blanca and others, on shallow limestone soils. It fermented with some 40% full clusters in open concrete vats, foot trodden with a long maceration and gentle extraction and matured in a 2,000-liter oak foudre for 23 months. It has a rugged texture, a chalky sensation in the tannins—stony, rocky and mineral—with a long, tasty and clean finish. All of the wines in 2021 have lower alcohol—this has only 12.5% alcohol and a pH of 3.35. This vineyard is in the process of being certified organic. 2,171 bottles, 45 magnums and 10 double magnums produced. It was bottled in November 2023.” [Luis Gutierrez, 02/29/2024]

Anticipated maturity: 2024-2035