Rioja DOP, La Vendimia, Alvaro Palacios, 2021

​La Vendimia 2021 is a young and vibrant red wine from Bodegas Palacios Remondo, a family-owned winery in Alfaro, Rioja, Spain. Álvaro Palacios, renowned for his influential role in Spanish winemaking, returned to his family’s estate in 2000 to oversee its operations. La Vendimia, meaning “The Harvest,” reflects the winery’s dedication to producing approachable yet expressive wines that embody the essence of the Rioja region.​

This wine is a balanced blend of Garnacha and Tempranillo grapes, sourced from vines aged between 10 to 40 years in Rioja Oriental. Cultivated organically and hand-harvested, the grapes undergo spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel tanks, followed by a 20-day maceration. A portion of the wine is aged in oak barrels and foudres, while the rest matures in tanks, resulting in a fresh and versatile profile. La Vendimia 2021 presents a clear, bright ruby-red colour with subtle violet reflections. On the nose, it offers prominent fruity notes accompanied by gentle hints of spice. The palate is fresh, easy to drink, and showcases the wine’s youthful character. ​

To complement the lively and fruity nature of La Vendimia 2021, pairing it with a well-aged Spanish cheese that complements the wine’s profile such as
Manchego Viejo 12 Months. Renowned for its firm, brittle texture and rich, sharp aroma with peppery hints, this cheese’s robust flavour pairs excellently with the vibrant notes of the La Vendimia 2021 Rioja, creating a harmonious tasting experience.