Oxer Wines Ahari 2022

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. It is recommended to decant it for half an hour. Founded in 2009 by Oxer Bastegieta, Oxer Wines is located in Laguardia in Rioja. The company owns approximately 5 hectares of centuries-old vineyards in the municipalities of Elvillar and Cárdenas, cultivated organically with the utmost respect for the environment and the terroir, to produce expressive and long-lived wines. The wine is a blend of Tempranillo, coming from old vines, with additions of Graciano, and Viura selected and harvested by hand. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in foudres, and the finished wine is then left to rest in used French oak barrels for 12 months. The name Ahari refers to a Basque mythological figure, an elf who enjoys scaring children. Ahari has a beautiful and bright cherry-toned color. Its aromatic profile is fresh and fragrant with delicate notes of violet and ripe red fruit, hints of dried herbs, leather, and sweet spices. On the palate, it is fresh and lively, with fine and well-integrated tannins. It is an elegant and concentrated wine with a long finish with pleasant hints of fruit and spices. Try it with roast lamb or guinea fowl with herbs, or leave it in the cellar for a few more years.

Price: £31.98 from 8wines UK