Pagos de Tahola Crianza 2015

Spain’s award-winning Chavarri family have lived and breathed superior-quality wine in Rioja – Spain’s premier wine region – since 1882. Their estate vineyards, located in the sought-after Alavesa district, boast rich limestone soil, some of the highest elevations in the area and ancient Tempranillo vines with painfully low yields. It’s everything they need to produce special wines of real character.

Take their fine Crianza, for example. Starting with hand-harvested Tempranillo, winemaker Miguel Lopez Nuñez tucked the young wine away for a year-long slumber in French and American oak barrels. After a further two-plus years in bottle, the smooth, mellow and inviting characters that define great Rioja emerged.

Look for aromas of ripe strawberry and red cherry with a sweet vanilla bean note that entices you to take a sip (and another … and another … ). Your palate will be greeted with loads of juicy, ripe red berries, toasted nutmeg character, silky tannins and a long, lingering finish.

Crianzas like Miguel’s are terrifically versatile (and crowd-pleasing). They’re velvety-smooth enough to be enjoyed solo and will also shine with a variety of small plates. They also have the structure and finesse to partner deliciously with lamb roasts, beefy stews and other hearty meals.

Country	Spain
Varietal	Tempranillo
Region	Rioja
Alcohol	14.0
Volume	750ML
Vintage	2015