CVNE Maceration Carbonica 2017

CVNE Maceration Carbonica 2017, its just banging juice that offers exceptional value for money with a super cool label. If you haven’t heard of Carbonic Maceration, or in Spanish Maceration Carbonica let us explain! Essentially is a different method of fermentation that produces softer tannin with a juicy smooth mouthfeel and texture. It can make a wine a lot more gluggable but when done right also adds some extra layers of complexity.

Carbinica 2017 is 100% Tempranillo from Rioja. More closely, the fruit is grown in vineyards scattered around the Rioja Alavesa sub-region. Rioja Alavesa is located between the foothills of the Cantabrian mountains which run to the north and the River Ebro to the south. The mountains offer some protection and shelter. from the Atlantic weather and wind. Interestingly the rainfall is double that of Rioja Baja which it south-east of Alevesa. Tempranillo is the most popular grape planted here, its the most popular grape in all Rioja actually. Alevesa has a more chalky clay soil profile with terraced vineyards due to the smaller plots and hillier ranges.

As soon as you pour this wine, the aromas bounce out of the glass. Lots of black currants, strawberry and ripe plum. The palate has the same fruit expression with smooth but juicy tannin and a lovely textured mouthfeel. There is a scented, long length that’s actually very pleasant and makes the wine very easy to drink. Pair with grilled meats or veg or even a hearty stew. We love it with a mixed cheese and meat board with warm fresh bread and Spanish Olive Oil.

The vintage in Rioja Alevesa for 2017 was marked with an April frost as well as some drought conditions through the summer. It was also the earliest vintage to date but offered fantastic quality all round.