2017 Finca Allende Rioja

Winemaker Notes: Finca Allende, the estate created by the exuberant Miguel Ángel de Gregorio, is located in the hill town of Briones in the Rioja Alta. “Allende” can be roughly translated as “further”, reflecting the property’s philosophy to go further and further towards creating the perfect Rioja.

This is intense ruby with purple edges. Fresh, vibrant blackberry, cranberry and wild forest fruits dominate before the subtle cedar and tobacco is revealed. The oak is perfectly integrated. It’s very lively on the palate with excellent depth and an elegant structure.

Madeline Triffon, M.S. pick: "Open, rich, and layered with a plush mouthfeel – all you could ask for in a mature red at a terrific price! Super high density vine spacing results in beautifully concentrated red fruit, with flavors of ripe plums and red raspberries.  Aged for over a year in French Bordeaux barrels, the vanillin oak is completely integrated and adds a “sweet” flavor and texture.  Owner/winemaker Miguel Angel de Gregorio thought up the name “Allende” – it means “To Go Farther”.  Miguel does not use any of the legal designations for Rioja: you will not see Crianza, Reserva or Gran Reserva on the labels, he wants to set his own standards for style and quality.