# El Escolladero (2021)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Y Viñedos Artuke
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Graciano
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.1%
- **Average price:** €70
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, ripe fruit, spice, red plum, red cherry, black plum, cedar, cloves, coffee, chocolate, vanilla, dried fruit, tobacco, earth, leather

## About this wine

El Escolladero 2021 is a red wine from Bodegas y Viñedos Artuke, located in the D.O.Ca. Rioja, Spain, specifically in the Rioja Alavesa sub-region. The wine originates from a single vineyard plot named 'El Escolladero' in Ábalos, at an altitude of 660 meters. This vineyard is known for its challenging terrain and features vines over 60 years old. The name 'El Escolladero' translates to 'difficulty' or 'obstacle,' referencing the historical challenges of the site. Bodegas y Viñedos Artuke is a family winery managed by brothers Arturo and Kike De Miguel Blanco, who are part of a group of producers focused on terroir expression.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyard name 'El Escolladero' means 'difficulty' or 'obstacle'.
- Vines are over 60 years old.
- Located in Ábalos at 660 meters altitude.
- Part of the 'Rioja'n'Roll' movement.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and structured tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats and game. The wine's inherent complexity can stand up to robust flavors, while its acidity helps to cut through fattier elements, cleansing the palate.

## Wine making process

El Escolladero is produced by Bodegas y Viñedos Artuke using grapes from a single vineyard. The harvest is manual, with grapes collected in small boxes. Following harvest, the grapes are manually destemmed. Fermentation takes place in micro-tanks of 2,000 kg capacity. The wine is then aged for a period of 12 to 16 months in French oak barrels. Some winemaking details suggest the use of biodynamic principles in viticulture and respectful vineyard management.