The Vina Palaciega Crianza Rioja 2008 is garnet red with tawny hues. Juicy hedgerow fruits and a touch of smoky oak on the nose backed by hints of cedar spice. Smooth and well structured with a lingering finish.

Goes well with all types of red meat, lamb and game. Perfect with cheese. Drinking now but will develop further in bottle.

This Rioja is made from grapes that are carefully selected, destemmed then partially crushed with a high proportion of full berries. The juice then undergoes a 15 - 20 day maceration period with pumping over taking place daily. A controlled fermentation follows at between 24-28º, using both native and selected yeasts. The wine spends 12 - 14 months in medium toasted American oak casks, which lend spicy aromas and flavours.