La Antigua Clasico is one of Alberto Orte’s most enduring history projects. Inspired by the style of winemaking that was popular in the first half of the 20th century, Alberto seeks to emphasize freshness and minerality, leading to potential for a long-lived wine. To that end, he has found old vine Garnacha, Tempranillo and Graciano in Sierra de la Demanda, south of the Ebro river in Rioja Alta. The northern facing, high-altitude vineyards experience cooler temperatures and less sunshine, resulting in grapes that ripen more slowly, showcasing flavors of greater balance and focus.
Ripe red berries, violet and cracked pepper on the nose; a vanilla nuance emerges with aeration. Seamless in texture and appealingly sweet, offering pliant raspberry and cherry flavors and a hint of mocha. Closes smooth and fruity, with subtle tannins.
