# Ontaño Crianza (2018)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Ontañón
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Garnacha
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €8
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, ripe fruit, red plum, red cherry, black cherry, cedar, cloves, vanilla, leather, earth

## About this wine

Ontaño Crianza 2018 is a red wine from Bodegas Ontañón, located in the D.O.Ca. Rioja region of Spain. The Pérez Cuevas family, now in their fourth generation of winemakers, crafts this wine from their estate vineyards. The grapes are grown on vines around 40 years old at an elevation of approximately 750 meters on the slopes of the Sierra Yerga mountains, in soil characterized by iron-rich clay and calcareous deposits. This high-altitude location experiences significant diurnal temperature shifts, influencing the grapes. Bodegas Ontañón is known for its multi-generational winemaking tradition and a unique artistic connection, evident in their winery-museum.

## Interesting facts

- Family winemaking legacy spans four generations.
- Winery features a unique museum dedicated to mythology and wine.
- Vineyards are situated at approximately 750 meters above sea level.
- Combines traditional winemaking with artistic expression.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and refined tannins are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in red meats and cured charcuterie. Its balanced acidity can cut through richer dishes, while subtle spice notes can echo flavors in seasoned dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Ontaño Crianza begins with hand-selected grapes. Fermentation takes place over approximately 20 days, followed by 8 days of skin maceration, with temperatures maintained between 24-26°C. The wine is then aged for 12 months in a combination of 60% American oak and 40% French oak barrels. Following barrel aging, it spends an additional 12 months aging in bottle before its release.