Orben 2020

In Laguardia, in the Rioja Alavesa, where the Atlantic climate still succumbs to some far-distant Mediterranean influence, there grow vines aged more than 70 years old which produce the grapes that will give rise to Orben. At the winery they combine knowledge acquired over generations with the most modern practices in order to obtain expressive wines that appeal to everyone. The grapes from micro-parcels scattered around the area are cared for meticulously so as to achieve a refined and robust wine that's, never fear, certainly not at all rough. Its violet tinges on the rim point to freshness whilst its central opaqueness is a very clear indication of its strong personality. From a combination of these two merits, Bodegas Orben attains a modern red, with an extensive aromatic palette which ranges from cherries and inky hints to liquorice and pencil lead. On the palate, it appears fresh right from the start, at the same time as lactic (toffee flavoured) and moderately tannic. It's juicy and rugged, and the concentrated fruit stands out on a spicy and balsamic background. It takes its leave repeating its fruit character with maximum expression accompanied by the warm touch of well-applied oak. Its older sibling, Malpuesto, a single parcel wine, takes all the Orben's merits to the next level. If you have the chance to taste it, don't turn it down.