Artadi Viñas de Gain 2017

The red 2017 Viñas de Gaín was marked by the frost of the 28th of April, when they lost 20% to 25% of the crop, but as I've seen in other wineries, the wines are much better than expected, especially when it comes to freshness, given the low yields and very early harvest. This fermented in oak vats and matured in oak barrels for eight months. It's fresh and tender, with ripeness but without excess, quite fruit-driven. It has a velvety texture and good quality tannins. An approachable Viñas de Gaín. 80,000 bottles produced (down from 120,000 the previous vintage). It was bottled in April 2019.

Impressive, rich, dark-cherry and blackberry aromas with nicely cut oak influence. The palate has a sleek, smooth-honed feel with such impressive freshness and depth. Stunning, vibrant finish. 100% tempranillo from several plots around Laguardia. Drink or hold.