# Izadi Reserva (2020)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Izadi
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Graciano
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, currant, plum, blackberry, vanilla, chocolate, sandalwood, spice, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Izadi Reserva is a red wine from the Rioja D.O.C.a. in Spain, specifically from the Rioja Alavesa sub-region. Produced by Bodegas Izadi, the 2020 vintage is primarily made from 100% Tempranillo, with some sources noting a small addition of Graciano. The winery, founded in 1987, is part of the Artevino Group and emphasizes creating modern, food-friendly wines, with its name 'Izadi' meaning 'Nature' in Basque, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The wine originates from old vines, averaging 45-50 years in age, grown at high altitudes on clay-chalk soils. This Reserva is designed to be a contemporary expression of Rioja Alavesa, showcasing the quality of its terroir and its connection to gastronomy.

## Interesting facts

- Izadi means 'Nature' in Basque, reflecting the winery's sustainable ethos.
- Vineyards are at high altitudes (450-550m) for concentrated fruit.
- The wine is aged for 16 months in a mix of American and French oak.
- Bodegas Izadi was founded by a family with a Michelin-starred restaurant background.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus to full body and firm, chalky tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like lamb, beef, and pork. Its fresh acidity cuts through fattier elements, while the complex fruit and oak notes can bridge with savory herbs and earthy vegetables.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Izadi Reserva begins with manual harvesting of the grapes. Following destemming, the fruit is fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, where malolactic fermentation also takes place. The wine is then aged for 16 months in a combination of American (approximately 73%) and French (approximately 27%) oak barrels, with a portion of the barrels being new. This careful vinification and aging process aims to create a balanced and complex wine.