What?
Juice 2017 Rioja Reserva, Izadi, Rioja Alavesa, SPA
Grape 100% Tempranillo
Farming Traditional
Tasting Note The 2017 Rioja Reserva has a fresh and fragrant nose, boasting aromas of redcurrant, cherry and plum with notes of tobacco, liquorice and earthy undertones. The palate is pure and concentrated with a long, fruit-forward finish.
Who?
Izadi is based in Villabuena in Rioja Alavesa, the highest part of Rioja. The hillside winery (whose precipitous slope allows for gravity assisted production) was founded in 1987 by Gonzalo Antón as a modern breakaway from the traditional style of wine produced by other members of his family. As his son Lalo, who now runs the estate, says: "the whole concept of Izadi really started around wanting to produce wine to satisfy the needs of our friends over a meal". Izadi produces modern, international wines that are true to their roots and a natural expression of the area.
Why?
We just love Lalo’s philosophy of producing wines ‘to satisfy the needs of our friends over a meal’. What better reason is there to produce wine? It is very much in line with our own philosophy which is that life is too short to drink bad wine, eat bad food and keep bad company. All the Izadi wines are incredibly drinkable with the oak influence very well managed. This allows the wines to retain a freshness and vibrancy which is perfect for pairing with food or to enjoy without, say perhaps with great friends…
With?
This is an incredibly versatile wine that will pair with a range of ingredients and dishes including spice, peppers, Indian food, Moroccan Tagines, American Barbecue and of course, it goes without saying, Spanish regional specialities. Many pork dishes especially cooked Spanish style with beans. Chorizo and Morcilla (black pudding) with their inherent spice and deep flavour being offset by the inherent freshness of the wine. Finally, any kind of lamb dish from tender lamb cutlets grilled over vine clippings (a local favourite in the region) to slow braised lamb shanks or even a Rogan Josh. Shepherd’s Pie, Lancashire Hotpot, Merguez, Moussaka... You get the picture!
