Mendieta Osaba El Camino Mazuelo Rioja 2021  £24.99

El CAMINO BY MENDIETA OSABA

Mendieta Osaba Wines is a small production, family-owned winery located at the skirts of the Sierra Cantabria, more precisely, Lanciego in the heart of the much sought after Rioja Alavesa terroir.  The Mendieta Osaba family has been passionately growing grapes on its family's historic vineyards for generations. Juantxu Mendieta, a.k.a. "Mendi" by his friends and family in his pueblo, produces quality, handcrafted wines that are limited in production and a true reflection of this very special terroir.

El Camino by Mendieta Osaba is made of 100% Mazuelo from a single vineyard site overlooking the old Camino de Santiago pilgrim route.  Mazuelo makes up only 3% of plantings in Rioja but is a great partner to Tempranillo and for wines destined to age due to its tannin structure, good acidity and stable colour levels.

Deep rich garnet in colour, the nose shows stewed fruit aromas followed by floral notes of violets.  A deliciously complex palate with a fresh, smooth and velvety texture followed by a long, luxurious finish.

Try with red meats, stews, red risotto, lasagna, mild dishes and/or desserts

Only 650 bottles produced!!

Critics

Mundus Vini 2023 - Gold Medal

Decanter - Rioja Guide 2023 - 91 Points

'An explosive palate with red fruits, red brambles, cranberries and white pepper. It has a lingering, powerful finish, 2023-30

Tim Atkin MW - Rioja Report 2023 - 90 Points

'The number of stand-alone Mazuelos is growing in Rioja, partly as a reflection of climate change and warmer, earlier vintages.  This is a serious, firm, densely fruited expression of the grape with fennel and wild herb aromas, grippy tannins, pithy acidity and a hint of vanilla oak sweetness, 2024-30