Bodegas Valdelana "Agnus" Rioja Crianza Rioja Alavesa, Spain

Agnus is a special, small-lot series of wines crafted by winemaker Juan Jesus Valdelana to reflect the more modern aspects of winemaking in Rioja while still being respectful of the deep-rooted traditions of the region. Crafted from the oldest (70+ years) estate Tempranillo and Graciano vineyards situated on the rolling chalk/clay hillsides of Rioja Alavesa, this wine pours like India ink out of the bottle. After the initial fermentation in stainless steel, the wine has been aged for a year in a 50/50 blend of French and Russian oak barrels. The finished wine is remarkably polished and deeply extracted, with a finish that echoes for as long as you can hold your breath.