Wines Rioja Altos de la Guardia - Tempranillo - 2022

Altos de la Guardia 2022 is a red Rioja that typifies the classic expression of the region’s most celebrated grape, Tempranillo. Harvested in 2022, this young vintage reflects the vibrancy and freshness that characterize Rioja’s modern approach to winemaking. The blend is primarily, if not entirely, Tempranillo—renowned for its lively fruit, medium body, and approachable tannins. The grapes are likely cultivated on the rolling hills of La Rioja, where calcareous clay and alluvial soils allow for excellent drainage and complexity in the finished wine. Vinification typically involves moderate extraction to maintain freshness, with careful temperature control during fermentation. In its youth, this wine usually spends little to no time in oak, preserving its fruit-driven profile and making it an excellent example of joven or tempranillo joven style.

La Rioja is Spain’s most famous wine region, situated in the north of the country along the Ebro River. Thanks to a continental climate tempered by Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, Rioja enjoys hot summers and mild winters, which contribute to an outstanding ripening period for red varieties like Tempranillo. The area’s geological diversity—ranging from limestone-clay in Rioja Alta to iron-rich soils in Rioja Alavesa—adds nuance and structure to the wines. Rioja’s storied wine tradition dates back centuries, blending old-world expertise with innovative techniques to create both ageworthy classics and fresh, contemporary styles like this one.

When it comes to food pairing, Rioja’s juicy young reds like Altos de la Guardia 2022 are wonderfully versatile. Their bright red fruit, gentle spice, and light tannins are ideal with grilled meats, especially lamb cutlets or chorizo cooked on an open fire. Tapas favorites such as patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, or stuffed piquillo peppers all complement the cherry and plum notes of this wine. For a regional touch, serve it alongside a traditional Rioja-style chicken stew or a potato and chorizo dish, allowing the wine’s acidity to cut through the richness.

To enjoy Altos de la Guardia 2022 at its best, serve slightly chilled, around 15-17°C. Open the bottle a half hour before drinking to let the aromas unfold. This wine is made for immediate pleasure and convivial occasions, so savor it young to fully appreciate its bold, lively character.