2023 Telmo Rodriguez La Estrada

The 2023 Telmo Rodriguez La Estrada is one of the most refined and terroir-driven wines of Rioja Alavesa. Sourced from a tiny vineyard of just 0.64 hectares, this wine demonstrates how an exceptional location can produce an expression entirely its own. Combining the elegance of high-altitude Tempranillo with the tension of chalky soils, La Estrada is one of Telmo Rodríguez's most exclusive single-vineyard wines.

A historic vineyard above Lanciego

La Estrada Alta is located on the far western side of the village of Lanciego in Rioja Alavesa. The vineyard is situated at an altitude of 610 meters, making it one of the higher-lying plots in the region. At only 0.64 hectares, it is one of the smallest vineyards within Bodega Lanzaga's portfolio.

The vines date back to the 1940s and are traditionally planted as bush vines. Many of the vines were grafted directly into the vineyard using historical local methods. The planting consists primarily of Tempranillo, supplemented by a small proportion of Graciano.

For years, La Estrada has been considered one of Telmo Rodríguez's favorite vineyards. Not because of its size, but because of the remarkable purity, depth, and balance that this location manages to produce year after year.

Lime-rich soils and a cool location

The vineyard has a northeast exposure and is situated atop a slope of pure calcareous clay. This combination of altitude, exposure, and soil ensures slow ripening of the grapes and helps preserve freshness and aromatic precision.

The poor soils naturally limit yields, causing the vines to concentrate their energy on a small quantity of grapes. The result is a wine with great depth and terroir expression without excessive power.

Like all of Telmo Rodríguez's top vineyards, La Estrada is cultivated organically with a strong focus on biodiversity and the preservation of the historic landscape.

Volume 2023

2023 saw a warm and dry growing season with early budburst and slow ripening. The rainfall in June ensured significant water reserves in the soil and stimulated the vegetative development of the vines.

The August heatwaves subsequently posed a significant challenge. However, thanks to the vineyard's high altitude, ripening proceeded in a controlled manner and sufficient freshness was retained. The grapes did not reach their optimal phenolic ripeness until October 6, considerably later than many other plots in the region.

This slow maturation contributes to the finesse and complexity that are so characteristic of La Estrada.

Scent, taste and style

La Estrada 2023 presents itself with a strikingly pure and refined aromatic expression. Aromas of red cherries, raspberries, and wild berries are complemented by floral notes, Mediterranean herbs, and subtle earthy nuances.

On the palate, the wine displays an impressive combination of concentration and elegance. The Tempranillo provides a core of ripe fruit and refined structure, while the Graciano adds extra tension and aromatic complexity.

The calcareous soils impart a distinct minerality to the wine and an almost chalky precision. The tannins are fine and refined, while the fresh acidity provides energy and length. The style is Burgundian rather than powerful, with an emphasis on balance, detail, and terroir expression.

The finish is long, layered, and particularly refined, where fruit, spices, and minerality come together harmoniously.

La Estrada is one of the most exclusive terroir wines of Rioja. The combination of a tiny historic vineyard, old bush vines, calcareous soils, and the vision of Telmo Rodríguez results in a wine that showcases the pure essence of Rioja Alavesa.

With only 1,954 bottles produced, availability is very limited. For lovers of terroir-driven Rioja and refined single-vineyard wines, La Estrada is among the most interesting wines of Spain.

At Grandcruwijnen, you buy exclusive top Spanish wines directly from specialized importers. All wines are stored under optimal conditions and shipped with care, or can be picked up at our store in Dordrecht.