Telmo Rodriguez 'Corriente' 2022

Telmo Rodriguez 'Corriente' originates from Spain, specifically from the village of Lanciego within the Rioja Alavesa subregion of Rioja. The wine's name is a tribute to an unofficial early 20th-century classification where 'Corriente' (common) referred to approachable, everyday village wines, as opposed to the more formal 'Selecto' styles. Co-owned by winemaker Telmo Rodriguez and Pablo Eguzkiza, Compañía de Vinos Telmo Rodríguez was founded in the mid-1990s with a mission to recover forgotten vineyards and work exclusively with native varieties. Their philosophy embraces a return to ancestral 18th-century winemaking traditions, focusing on terroir-driven wines that authentically reflect their regional culture.

Wine Description

This red blend typically presents a vibrant cherry-red or purple-red hue. The sensory profile is fresh and aromatic, featuring a nose of ripe cherries, strawberries, and blackberries, often accented by notes of wild herbs, sweet spices, vanilla, and a subtle peppery undertone. On the medium-bodied palate, it is light, fleshy, and well-concentrated, delivering juicy red and black fruit flavours balanced by refreshing acidity and firm, fine-grained tannins. The finish is persistent and pleasant, often showing mineral, floral, or slightly balsamic hints.

• Varietal Composition: A traditional Rioja blend predominately featuring Tempranillo (often around 70%), supplemented by Graciano and Garnacha.

• ABV: Recorded at 14%.

• Organic Status: The wine is organically produced from estate vineyards and long-term partners, utilizing manual harvesting and indigenous yeast fermentation.

• Ageing: Unlike the winery's 'LZ' label, 'Corriente' is aged for approximately one year in a mixture of concrete tanks, oak barrels, and foudres of various ages.

Food Pairing

The fresh acidity and balanced tannins of 'Corriente' make it a versatile partner for a wide range of savoury dishes. Suggested pairings include:

• Meats: Grilled lamb, beef steak with herb butter, roast beef, and slow-braised brisket.

• Savoury Fare: Charcuterie, cured meats, and sautéed mushrooms with garlic.

• Global Cuisine: Flank steak with cumin and peppercorn, Greek pastitsio, Mexican-style chicken, or Indian tandoori lamb.

• Cheeses: Aged Comté, matured Manchego, or British Cheddar.