INTRODUCTION

The name of the vineyard, El Manao, is a local word referring to an area of natural springs on the banks of the River Ebro. 100 % of the grapes are handpicked from Tempranillo vines grown in an area known as “El Manao”. This little gem covers just 0.24 hectares and was planted with goblet-trained vines in square formation in 1927 (although in the records of the Rioja Control Board it appears as 1952). It is situated at an altitude of 410m, on a hill with a 20% incline facing perfectly south. It is presided over by a majestic walnut tree. The vineyard has markedly clayey-calcareous soil with a medium-level organic matter content and change capacity, perfect for growing vines.

TASTING NOTES

Intense garnet red in colour. The nose is elegant and full of nuances. Initially there are notes of ripe fruit, black fruit jam, liquorice, soft toasted notes, coffee and tobacco in the background. On the palate it is an intense, ample and enveloping wine, full of personality, with round tannins. Its long and persistent finish is due to the intensity with which the fruit and toasted aromas reappear on the palate.

AWARDS

Tim Atkin – 95 points
Jancis Robinson – 17.5 points
Decanter – 91 points