Viña Solarce Tinto, a wine from Casa La Rad in Rioja Oriental

Viña Solarce Tinto

2022 ·  Rioja DOCa

Viña Solarce Tinto reflects the open and vibrant character possible from the Casa La Rad vineyards in the Ocón Valley. Crafted from a selection of traditional Rioja grape varieties grown at high altitudes, this wine combines freshness, finesse, and balance, offering an accessible and authentic expression of the Rioja Oriental landscape.

Grape Varieties:‍ ‍

Tempranillo (54%), Garnacha 13%), Mazuelo (7%), Maturana (7%), Cabernet Sauvignon (7%)

Aging: A portion of the wine ages for nine months in French and American oak barrels, while the rest remains in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and balance.

Altitude: Between 535 and 640 meters | 1,750 - 2,100 feet

Average Vine Age: 24 years

Origin:

Vineyard Profile:  Grapes come from various plots on the Casa La Rad estate, located in the Ocón Valley in Rioja Oriental. Grown at altitudes ranging from 530 to 650 meters and surrounded by natural vegetation, these vines benefit from a diverse and balanced environment that promotes slow ripening and great aromatic intensity.

The soils, composed of alluvial clays, limestone, and stonier areas at higher elevations, contribute structure, freshness, and complexity to the wine.

Winemaking and Aging:

Winemaking: Fermentation takes place with selected yeasts in stainless steel tanks, with a maceration period of 15 to 18 days at controlled temperatures to preserve aromatic intensity and fruit purity.

Afterward, some of the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in tanks, and some in barrels.

Tasting Notes:

With an intense and bright cherry red color, the wine displays a rich aromatic profile featuring notes of ripe red fruit, cherry, and cassis, complemented by delicate spicy and balsamic hints. On the palate, it is full-bodied and balanced, with good structure, smooth tannins, and a fresh, persistent finish.

Additional Comments:

James Suckling (2021 vintage): “Lightly chewy, showing some dried sweet spices to the red plums, hazelnuts, chocolate and berries. Juicy and firm with tight, structured tannins, medium body and a medium-length finish.” (90 points)

Production: 48,000 bottles