Belus 2018 (Baigorri)

Cellar for up to 15 years. Decant for an hour or more before serving. This red blend from Bodegas Baigorri is a trendsetting expression of Rioja. It contains just 15% Tempranillo and 15% Garnacha, while the remaining amount is made up of Mazuelo, also known as Carignan, an elegant grape native to this corner of Spain. On the nose, "Belus" shows powerful aromas of red fruit, black olive, and herbaceous hints of rosemary and thyme. Bodegas Baigorri is located in the heart of the Rioja region, under the imposing Sierra de Cantabria. Those at the winery have a penchant for innovation, and "Belus" is a fantastic example of how ancient wine-making regions can continue to shape the future. This wine is an incredible royal purple in the glass, with smooth tannins and refreshing doses of acidity. It is both bright and elegant in the mouth: red-fruit flavours of raspberry and cranberry mingle with hints of earth, cinnamon and liquorice. The grapes were sourced from a single vineyard, growing on red clay soils at an altitude of 700 meters. It takes its time on the palate, tailing into a woody, spicy finish. Serve at room temperature and consider pairing this wine with rich and spicy meat dishes, such as chorizo, roasted pork or spiced meatballs.