Rioja

Defining the 2021 vintage in Rioja requires looking beyond the averages, as it was a year of contrasting fortunes and precise timing.

Spring was steady if unremarkable, with the vines navigating the vulnerable flowering stage without major incident.

Summer turned up the intensity. With 11 days soaring above 35°C, the vines faced a stress test. Combined with a lack of rainfall (only 181mm total), this led to hydric stress that halted ripening in younger vines, though old vines with deep roots persevered. A key factor was the dramatic diurnal shift (12.6°C), ensuring that despite the daytime warmth, acidities remained razor-sharp.

Harvest proceeded under mixed skies, requiring agility to dodge the 31mm of rain that fell sporadically during the picking weeks.

**Style:** Classically proportioned wines with good balance and terroir expression.