# La Estrada (2021)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Lanzaga - Telmo Rodriguez
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Graciano
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €115
- **Vegan:** No
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, black cherry, black plum, sour cherry, leather, earth

## About this wine

Telmo Rodriguez La Estrada 2021 is a red wine from Bodegas Lanzaga - Telmo Rodriguez, originating from the La Estrada vineyard in Rioja Alavesa, Spain. This single-vineyard wine is a testament to Telmo Rodriguez's philosophy of expressing the unique character of specific vineyard sites. The vineyard, planted in the 1940s, is farmed organically and is a small plot of 0.64 hectares. The wine is a field blend, predominantly Tempranillo with a small amount of Graciano, reflecting historical vineyard practices. The 2021 vintage is described as yielding concentrated wines with good aging potential.

## Interesting facts

- From a minuscule 0.64-hectare plot planted in the 1940s.
- Primarily Tempranillo with a touch of Graciano.
- Farmed using traditional organic methods.
- Only 1,941 bottles produced.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, while its high acidity cuts through fattiness. Herbal notes in the wine can echo those in dishes, and the complexity can stand up to robust flavors.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Telmo Rodriguez La Estrada begins with hand-harvesting grapes from the La Estrada plot. Fermentation takes place in oak vats using indigenous yeasts. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging for 14 to 16 months, primarily in large oak foudres (1200L+), with a conscious avoidance of new oak and smaller barrels. This approach emphasizes the preservation of the vineyard's distinct characteristics.