# La Dula Sierra de Toloño (2022)

- **Producer:** Sierra de Toloño
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Garnacha
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €30
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, rose, raspberry, strawberry, red cherry, blossom, forest floor, earth

## About this wine

La Dula Sierra de Toloño is a 100% Garnacha red wine from the D.O.Ca. Rioja, specifically the Rioja Alavesa sub-region. Produced by Sierra de Toloño, the wine originates from ancient vines, some dating back to 1944, situated at elevations exceeding 650 meters. This high-altitude, cool-climate terroir is a defining characteristic of the wine. The winemaking project is led by Sandra Bravo, whose philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention and respect for the vineyard. The wine is distinguished by its use of amphorae for fermentation and aging, aiming to capture the purity of the high-altitude fruit.

## Interesting facts

- Grown at over 650 meters altitude.
- Made from 70+ year old Garnacha vines.
- Fermented and aged in clay amphorae.
- Minimal intervention winemaking.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of proteins like lamb and pork, while its delicate tannins complement the meat's structure. Herbal notes in the wine can echo herbs used in cooking, and its fruit character pairs well with fruit-based sauces or accompaniments.

## Wine making process

La Dula Sierra de Toloño is produced using 100% Garnacha grapes. The winemaking process emphasizes minimal intervention, with spontaneous fermentation utilizing indigenous yeasts. This fermentation takes place at very low temperatures in vessels such as small oak foudres, barrels, or clay amphorae. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an aging period of several months in 300-liter ceramic amphorae. The grapes are hand-harvested into small crates to maintain their quality. The vineyard practices employed are organic and biodynamic.