Ysios 2018

Ysios is a fantastic Rioja, a straightforward wine, extremely fresh, profound, very drinkable and very well constructed. Perhaps it seems a little closed at first but it's simply because it's discreet, quite genteel: it's not assertive, not opulent, it's subtle and refined. Leave it to breathe for half an hour beforehand and you'll see how seductive it is from the first mouthful and before you know it, the bottle's empty. Concentrated in flavour yet without too much extraction, it's accessible, a wine that's delicate, floral, very elegant and select; unblemished, practically perfect, we'd dare to say. Ysios is made exclusively from Tempranillo grapes sourced from eight areas, with vineyards rooted in soils of differing composition and located in truly beautiful countryside, at the foot of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains. Grapes from selected vineyards, choice barrels too, and a very thorough production process enabling attainment of fantastic balance and a flawless ensemble. On the nose, Ysios is elegant and pleasant, with a predominance of crunchy red fruits such as red currants and raspberries, with the odd floral note and mild menthol hint. On the palate it's meaty, showing plenty of vigour, and reveals its Rioja origins with an unmistakable undertone of tea; concentrated but always staying moist and juicy, it reveals some steely touches on the tongue, and proves an absolute pleasure to drink. A fine wine like those of the olden days, with the modernity of good Riojas nowadays. Always have a second bottle at the ready because the first won't last long! A most enjoyable drink.