2011 Izadi Rioja Reserva

2011 Izadi Rioja Reserva $10/$40

Where: Rioja Alavesa, España

Who: Lalo Anton, son of the

What: Tempranillo!

Izadi is based in Villabuena in the Rioja Alavesa, the highest part of Rioja…

The hillside winery (the precipitous slope allows for gravity assisted production) was founded in 1987 by Gonzalo Anton as a modern breakaway from the traditional style of wine produced by other members of his family. As his son Lalo, who now runs the estate, says: "the whole concept of Izadi really started around wanting to produce wine to satisfy the needs of our friends over a meal". Izadi produce modern, international wines that are true to their roots and a natural expression of the area, which is unhindered by the sort of deviant flavours that are all too common in Rioja.

Vineyards

Izadi sources their fruit from 186 hectares of vineyards in Samaniego, Abalos and La Puebla de Labarca, all located in Rioja Alavesa. The vineyards are all either owned or leased on long-term contracts, so they have full control over production. The vines are traditionally trained bush vines, a method which Izadi believes gives better exposure to the grapes, something which in turn leads to better ripeness and softer, fuller wines. The vineyards are 600 metres above sea level, so warm days give way to cool nights which encourage the aromatic qualities in the grapes to develop.

Tasting Notes

Shiny ruby red in colour. Rich aromatic intensity and a nice balance of red fruit, liquorice and spices, with hints of smoke in the background. Elegant and round on the palate with a long aftertaste full of floral and ripe fruit notes.