Sierra Cantabria, Crianza, 2020 - Magnum

Grapes

Tempranillo

Vintage report

The 2020 vintage in Rioja arrived with all the drama of a Spanish telenovela. After a mild winter and early budbreak, spring brought welcome rains that recharged the soils, followed by a scorching summer that had growers reaching for their prayer books. The saving grace came in September's cooler nights, which allowed the grapes to retain their freshness whilst still achieving full ripeness. Harvest began earlier than usual but proceeded at a measured pace, giving producers the luxury of picking each plot at its optimal moment.

What emerged from the cellars shows Rioja at its most expressive. The Tempranillo displays gorgeous concentration without heaviness—think ripe cherry and plum wrapped in fine tannins that feel polished rather than aggressive. Garnacha from the higher sites particularly shines, bringing vibrant red fruit and spice that cuts through the vintage's natural richness. We're finding the crianzas already drinking beautifully, showing their fruit with confidence, whilst the reservas and gran reservas promise to develop into something rather special over the next decade. This is a vintage that rewards both patience and immediate pleasure.