Artesa Rioja Rosado

Bodegas Ontanon is a 5th generation family-owned and run winery in Rioja Baja (now Rioja Oriental). Here Raquel, Ruben and Maria Perez Cuevas continue their father Gabriel's work to develop Bodegas Ontanon into one of the most highly-regarded wineries in Rioja. Ontanon has vast swathes of vineyard in this part of Rioja. Whilst wine production in the region is typically very dependent on contracts with grape growers, the Perez Cuevas family has seen fit to invest heavily in the purchase of its own land and vines. Its 250ha is a testament to the importance it places on controlling grape quality.

The family's vineyards sit high in the Sierra Yerga mountains in the prestigious region surrounding Quel, defying misconceptions that Rioja Baja is one of the lesser sub-regions within Rioja. Many of their vineyards are actually planted at altitudes on a par with, or above, those in Rioja Alta and Alavesa; (La Pasada is their highest vineyard at 800m above sea level, planted in 1979 it is used for Reserva and Gran Reserva wines). The hot and dry Mediterranean climate allows for consistent ripening of the grapes with little disease and this has enabled them to pursue organic production across 57 hectares of vines.

Vineyards

Made from 85% Tempranillo and 15% Garnacha grapes cultivated in hillside vineyards (400 metres above sea level) in Rioja Oriental (previously known as Rioja Baja). The vineyards have clay stone soils with some sandy areas. The vines are trained using the trellis system.

Vinification

The grapes are chilled for several hours before cool fermentation in stainless steel. Maceration time is limited to 8 hours to produce a rose with low tannins, and the wine is fermented as for white wine.

Tasting Notes

A dry, approachable Rioja rose with raspberry fruit on the nose. The palate has redcurrant and strawberry characters and a bright, juicy finish.

Great with white meats, pasta, pizza or seafood. In fact great with food - or not!