Such is the strength of Brand Rioja`s ancient heritage in the popular imagination that many Rioja lovers assume that all the Bodegas are centuries old. In fact because of a turbulent 20th century, many of the most illustrious names are but blow-ins, newcomers to the market if not to the soil. And such a one is Artadi. Founded in only 1985, it has achieved a renown the envy of many of its peers. It cultivates the oldest vines, the finest terroirs and the most fcussed search for perfection I can think of. All the vineyards are either organic or biodynamically cultivated and biodiversity is encouraged.

In the cellar only native yeasts are used and a low sulphur regime is followed as it is in most quality conscious producers. The Rioja Alavesa vineyards give such high quality fruit that it would be a great shame not to allow it to shine. Impoverished clay and limestone soils at a decent altitude make the vines struggle and together with a marginal climate make small quantities of top quality wine. (CW 14/07/14)