Bodegas Ontañón is a 5th generation family-owned and run winery in Rioja Baja (now Rioja Oriental). Here Raquel, Rubén and Maria Pérez Cuevas continue their father Gabriel's work to develop Bodegas Ontañón into one of the most highly-regarded wineries in Rioja. Ontañón has vast swathes of vineyard in this part of Rioja. Whilst wine production in the region is typically very dependent on contracts with grape growers, the Pérez Cuevas family has seen fit to invest heavily in the purchase of its own land and vines. Its 250ha is a testament to the importance it places on controlling grape quality.

The hot and dry Mediterranean climate allows for consistent ripening of the grapes with little disease and this has enabled them to pursue organic production across 57 hectares of vines.

After harvesting the different varieties and parcels of grapes are vinified separately to maintain their character and complexity. Vinification is with minimal intervention - with short yet frequent pump-overs to ensure maximum extraction without compromising the integrity of the skins and seeds. Fermentation temperature is controlled at 24°C to allow the most beneficial extraction whilst preserving aromatics. The wine matures for 3-5 months in various oak types and toast levels, tailored to each parcel. This enhances the wine's complexity rather than over-shadowing the inherent character of the wine. A portion undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrel to give the finished wine a little more softness, seamless oak integration, and an elegant mouthfeel.

Enjoy with roast lamb and pork, or match with mushroom risotto for a vegetarian alternative