Arzuaga, Crianza, 2020

Arzuaga Crianza is a notable red wine produced in the Ribera del Duero region of Spain, an area recognized for its high-quality Tempranillo (locally known as Tinto Fino) wines. Bodegas Arzuaga Navarro, the winery that produces this wine, is among the most respected in the region.

As a "Crianza" wine, Arzuaga Crianza spends a specified period in oak barrels and then in the bottle before it's released to the market. According to the Spanish wine laws, Ribera del Duero Crianza wines must be aged for a minimum of 24 months, with at least 12 months in oak barrels.

Arzuaga Crianza is primarily made from Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) grapes, often with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot blended in. The exact blend can vary from vintage to vintage.

Typically, Arzuaga Crianza exhibits a deep cherry-red color. On the nose, it offers a harmonious blend of red and black fruit aromas such as cherries, blackberries, and plums, mingled with vanilla, spice, and possibly tobacco notes from the oak aging. On the palate, the wine is generally full-bodied with well-balanced tannins and a good acidity. The flavors mirror the nose, with the addition of a certain minerality and density that is characteristic of Ribera del Duero wines.

Arzuaga Crianza is considered to be a versatile wine when it comes to food pairing, going well with various meat dishes, especially lamb and beef, as well as aged cheeses and hearty stews.