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Description

Experience the essence of Rioja Alavesa with the 2020 Izadi Reserva, a wine that masterfully bridges the gap between modern precision and traditional elegance. Hailing from the high-altitude vineyards of Villabuena, Samaniego, and Ábalos, this wine is crafted primarily from hand-picked Tempranillo grapes sourced from vines averaging over 45 years of age.

Bodegas Izadi, founded in 1987 by the Antón family—who also own the renowned Michelin-starred restaurant Zaldiaran—brings a deeply gastronomic philosophy to their winemaking. This Reserva undergoes a meticulous aging process of 16 months in a balanced selection of French and American oak barrels, followed by an extended period of rest in the bottle before release. The result is a beautifully structured red that expresses a complex bouquet of ripe cherries, currants, and plums, perfectly complemented by subtle, warming notes of toasted oak, tobacco, and licorice.

On the palate, it is smooth and velvety, offering a medium-to-full body with fine-grained tannins that provide a sophisticated structure without being overwhelming. Its freshness, a hallmark of the high-altitude terroir, ensures that the fruit-forward character remains vibrant and lively.

This wine is an incredibly versatile partner for the table. It shines when paired with classic Spanish dishes such as roasted lamb with herbs, chorizo-based paella, or hearty beef stews. For a vegetarian pairing, its earthy undertones and spice notes make it a fantastic match for grilled portobello mushrooms or aged Manchego cheese. Whether you are hosting a Sunday roast or looking for a refined, reliable wine to enjoy with friends, the Izadi Reserva 2020 delivers a premium, accessible experience that celebrates the storied heritage of the Rioja region.