La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza 2020

Dried cherry, balsamic, dusty herbs and a cedar undercurrent, the oak measured and well-placed rather than front and center. The 80% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha blend is taut and fine-grained, with tannins that still carry a touch of youthful grip and fruit that hasn't quite settled into itself. More precise and cleaner-cut than the 2019, it straddles Ardanza's classical house character and something a little more openly expressive. Patience is rewarded here, the structure and focus point clearly toward a more harmonious future. Drink 2027–2038.