2021 Aiurri Landua

With the 2021 vintage, the first vintage of a new project by the Pago de Carraovejas group is a fact. For some time now, they have been in possession of a unique vineyard located in Leza in the Rioja Alavesa. After years of studying the best areas of the Rioja Alavesa, Alma Pago de Carraovejas completed their purchase of Aiurri in Leza in 2020. A long-cherished dream with a clear goal in mind: to become a reference project in the region, with the aim of putting the village and its surroundings on the map: the character of a magical place where wine and its culture reach every corner.

With the 2021 vintage, the Landua sees the light of day and is the first vintage produced entirely under the management of Carraoveja's team and it shows. The Landua of Aiurri is a wine from the municipality of Leza, en Salas, from one of the unique old vineyards of the DOCA Rioja. Landua is a reflection of the expression of small plots of old vines that sprout under the shelter of the Sierra de Cantabria, between the municipalities of Sonsierra and Laguardia. The surrounding mountainous terrain contributes to the creation of a unique microclimate in which Atlantic and Mediterranean influences come together. The search for the essence of each plot and each municipality ultimately results in a blended wine after maturation. Floral aromas that linger.

The Aiurri Landua 2021 is a fresh, elegant red wine. On the nose fresh red fruit with aromas of blackberries and plums, complemented by a hint of violet and spices. On the palate it has refined tannins that provide structure and a fresh finish that invites you to continue enjoying. Ideal for those looking for an elegant, not too heavy Rioja wine with personality.

Climate conditions: The 2021 harvest was marked by abundant rainfall during the winter, 12% above average in the Leza area. We worked with green manures to improve the soil structure and increase the microbiological richness of each plot. The buds burst in April without any weather or plant health incidents. The biological management of the crop and the good weather made it possible to treat the vineyards with natural products. The mild summer temperatures preserved the acidity and freshness of the grapes. The harvest began on September 21 and ended on October 2.

Biodiversity: The origin and diversity of the terroir formed at the foot of the Sierra de Cantabria mountain range gives the vineyard a distinctive character. The terroir is a mix of small plots with clonal biodiversity that extend under the influence of the mountain range. The vineyards consist mainly of Tempranillo with some Graciano, Garnacha, white varieties and other unknown varieties. The heterogeneity of the soil and the microclimate ensure a special ripening of each plot. Together with the practice of organic viticulture, an extraordinary balance is achieved in the vines, capturing the essence of unique vineyards in every bottle. This is a new style based on very old principles. Instead of 1 very large vineyard with 1 type of grape, we see the old field blends again. A vineyard with many different types of grapes. These unique (very) old vineyards with criss-cross different grapes are what they were looking for at Carraovejas.

Vinification by plot: The must is moved by gravity. It is vinified with spontaneous fermentations, gentle extractions and very controlled temperatures in French oak barrels and concrete tanks. The grapes from San Vicente were aged for nine months in foeders and French oak barrels of various sizes, while the wine from Leza was refined for twelve months in French oak barrels. After blending, the wine was aged for five months in concrete tanks. For further protection, the wine contains sulphites. It was bottled in spring 2023 and then aged for a further 9 months in bottle and is due to be launched on the market in early 2024.

FACT: In the tab 'Attachments' you will find the official fact sheet of this beautiful wine. We will automatically send you this when you order this wine. The wine is in our conditioned Wine Warehouse and if you come to pick up the wine you will often also receive a nice discount . You will see your discount immediately when you choose 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht almost next to the A16 with plenty of parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous and Wine Spectator via the links next to the image. A free service for our customers. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for customers of Grandcruwijnen.

1. Roasted chicken with paprika powder and garlic

The mild tannins and fresh acids give structure alongside juicy chicken. Paprika and garlic enhance the spiciness and smooth the flavour intensity.

2. Pasta with mushrooms, bacon and Parmesan

Earthy world of mushrooms and umami of bacon pairs perfectly with those soft tannins. Cheese adds a rich softness to the whole.

3. Meatballs in tomato sauce with oregano

Juicy minced meat in umami-rich tomato sauce complements the ripe fruit tones. Oregano complements the Mediterranean character of the wine.

4. Grilled aubergine with balsamic vinegar and goat cheese

Roasting deepens the character of the aubergine, balsamic vinegar adds a spicy freshness. The soft goat cheese finally adds a creamy touch.

5. Poached pear with blue cheese and walnut

Pair of soft fruits, strong cheese and nuts balanced with ripe fruit, acidity and tannin — classic yet versatile.

6. Spiced lamb chops with mint-yogurt sauce

Lamb provides enough body for the wine, while mint yogurt emphasizes the freshness and keeps the wine lively.