Viuda Negra "Otra Historia" Rioja '21

Javier is the fifth generation of a family of winemakers from Laguardia, in Rioja Alavesa.  He produced his first wine for his father’s winery when he was just 17, and, after working at the family bodega for eight year, in 2013 he decided to start his own project, Bodegas Javier San Pedro Ortega. Under his own project, there are three ranges of wines: Cueva de Lobos, Anahí, and Viuda Negra, which means “black widow” and is based on old-vine vineyards. He works in a style to make wines that differ those of many traditional Rioja wines, with a focus on singular, authentic wines that express the land.
 
The climate in Rioja Alavesa is heavily influenced by winds coming off the Atlantic Ocean, more so than in the rest of Rioja, and the region is slightly protected by the Cantabrian mountains. Viuda Negra comes from vines with an average age of 40 years, organically grown at an elevation of 620 meters in clay and limestone soils. “Otra Historia” is made from 100% Tempranillo that is harvested by hand. The grapes are whole-bunch pressed and under three to four days of carbonic maceration on the skins. Fermentation and aging take place in stainless steel. No wood barrels are used.
 
Notes of raspberry, strawberry, violets, and anise on the nose carry over to a medium-bodied palate with moderate tannins, concentrated fruit, and a long finish. Pair it with grilled meats, vegetarian dishes, or a range of tapas or pintxos. Also great served with a slight chill.