# El Coto Crianza (2022)

- **Producer:** El Coto de Rioja
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, vanilla, cedar, toast

## About this wine

El Coto Crianza is the flagship wine from El Coto de Rioja, a producer founded in 1970 in Oyón, within the Rioja Alavesa subzone. The winery has grown to become one of Spain's most recognized brands, distributing its wines in over 70 countries. The name "coto" refers to a demarcated, exclusive space, embodying the winery's philosophy of meticulous care and dedication to quality. This Crianza is celebrated as a benchmark for accessible, versatile, and high-quality Rioja, reflecting the region's rich winemaking heritage combined with modern innovation. The 2022 vintage continues this tradition, offering a classic expression of Tempranillo from one of Rioja's largest vineyard owners.

## Interesting facts

- El Coto de Rioja, founded in 1970, is one of Spain's most recognized wine brands.
- It is the largest vineyard owner in DOCa Rioja, with over 730 hectares of vines.
- The name "coto" signifies a demarcated, exclusive space, reflecting meticulous care.
- The 2022 El Coto Crianza was awarded a Gold medal at the 2025 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles.

## Food pairing

This Rioja Crianza, with its medium body, well-integrated tannins, and balanced profile of fresh fruit, vanilla, and subtle spice, is remarkably versatile. It harmonizes beautifully with a range of dishes, from rich meats and savory stews to flavorful cheeses and cured meats. The wine's fruitiness complements the richness of proteins, while its oak-derived spices enhance savory elements without overpowering delicate flavors. Its smooth finish makes it an excellent companion for both hearty and more refined meals.

## Wine making process

El Coto de Rioja owns over 730 hectares of vineyards across all subzones of the DOCa Rioja, making it the largest winegrower in the region. While specific viticultural practices for the 2022 vintage are not detailed, the producer emphasizes a blend of heritage and innovation in their approach. Grapes are fermented in 30 to 45-tonne vats, utilizing advanced technology for precise temperature control and optimal color extraction, ensuring balance and structure in the final wine. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes a minimum of 12 months of aging in selected 225-litre American oak barrels. This is followed by at least 6 months of bottle aging before the wine is released to the market, allowing it to develop complexity and integrate its flavors.