# Valdepalacios Crianza (2020)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Y Viñedos Leza Garcia S.
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Tempranillo, Garnacha Tinta, Mazuelo
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €14
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, black currant, purple plum, ripe blackberry, Mission fig, lavender, dark chocolate, milk-chocolate, cocoa, butterscotch, sweet spice, dried fruit

## About this wine

Valdepalacios Crianza is a red wine produced by Bodegas Y Viñedos Leza Garcia S.L. in the Rioja Alta sub-region of Spain. This family-owned winery, now in its third generation, is dedicated to expressing the unique terroir of their vineyards through a combination of traditional and modern winemaking practices. The Crianza is crafted primarily from Tempranillo, with smaller additions of Garnacha Tinta and Mazuelo, reflecting the classic Rioja Alta style. The vineyards are situated in the Najerilla Valley at altitudes ranging from 500 to 700 meters, benefiting from a climate that fosters balanced grape development. The 2020 vintage, with its 14% ABV, is noted for its full-bodied character and complexity, earning recognition from wine critics.

## Interesting facts

- The vineyards are located in the Najerilla Valley, a picturesque area within Rioja Alta.
- The wine is aged for 12 months in a mix of American and French oak barrels.
- It's a blend, with Tempranillo as the star, supported by Garnacha Tinta and Mazuelo.
- Valdepalacios Crianza 2020 earned a 92-point rating from Wine Enthusiast.

## Food pairing

The generous, smooth tannins in Valdepalacios Crianza are a perfect match for the proteins in red meats and game, softening as they interact with the food. Its balanced acidity cuts through richer dishes, cleansing the palate, while the subtle oak notes complement roasted flavors and aged cheeses.

## Wine making process

The production of Valdepalacios Crianza involves careful vineyard management by the Leza García family, with harvests typically occurring in early October. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled 28°C for 14 days, utilizing daily pump-overs for optimal extraction. Post-fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in a mix of American and French oak barrels, followed by a minimum of 6 months of bottle aging before release. This process is designed to create a wine that balances traditional Rioja characteristics with expressive fruit.