Unearthing Rioja's Hidden Gems: Altos Reds You Need to Taste
For decades, Jean-Marc Sauboua has been a name whispered with respect in the world of winemaking. His journey spans continents and vineyards, accumulating a wealth of experience that few can match. Now, he’s bringing that expertise to bear on a lesser-known, yet incredibly promising, corner of Rioja: Altos, the region’s high country.
Forget the familiar landscapes and varietals you associate with Rioja. Altos presents a unique terroir – higher altitude, cooler temperatures, and distinct soil compositions – that yields reds with a captivating character. Sauboua, with his characteristic hands-on approach, has been meticulously crafting two standout Altos reds that are begging to be discovered.
The Altos Advantage: Altitude and Attitude
The elevation of Altos plays a crucial role. Cooler temperatures slow down grape ripening, resulting in wines with brighter acidity, more complex aromatics, and refined tannins. This translates to a longer growing season, allowing the grapes to develop richer flavours and a more concentrated character. The soils, often limestone-rich, further contribute to the wines’ minerality and structure.
Sauboua’s philosophy is rooted in minimal intervention. He believes in allowing the terroir to speak for itself, employing gentle techniques in the vineyard and winery to preserve the integrity of the fruit. This dedication shines through in the resulting wines – they’re not just good, they’re expressive, honest, and reflective of their unique origin.
Two Altos Reds to Seek Out: A Taste of the High Country
While Sauboua’s Altos portfolio is expanding, two reds currently stand out as essential tasting experiences:
- Altos Reserva: A classic Rioja blend, but with an Altos twist. Expect a vibrant ruby hue, layered aromas of dark berries, spice, and a hint of vanilla. On the palate, it’s full-bodied with firm tannins that are beautifully integrated, leading to a long, lingering finish.
- Altos Garnacha: Showcasing the potential of Garnacha in this high-altitude environment, this wine boasts a captivating intensity. Aromas of ripe cherries, plum, and earthy notes mingle with a subtle smokiness. The palate is juicy and well-structured, displaying a delightful balance of fruit, acidity, and spice.
Why You Should Be Paying Attention
Rioja is a region synonymous with quality and tradition. However, Altos represents a new chapter, a chance to explore a different facet of this celebrated wine region. Sauboua’s dedication to showcasing the unique character of Altos makes these reds a compelling discovery for any wine enthusiast. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to taste these hidden gems – they’re a testament to the power of terroir and the passion of a seasoned winemaker.
Where to Find Them: Keep an eye out for Altos wines at select wine retailers and online shops. They're increasingly gaining recognition and are well worth the search!