2022 Artadi, "Viñas de Gain," Álava, Rioja - 750ML

Artadi’s Viñas de Gaín is drawn from selected vineyards around Laguardia and Elvillar in Rioja Alavesa, offering a polished introduction to the estate’s terroir-driven style. The warm, dry 2022 vintage produced a wine with ripe fruit and concentration, yet Artadi preserved impressive freshness, fine tannins, and a notably elegant profile.

Blend: Approximately 95–98% Tempranillo with a small proportion of Viura; The Wine Advocate notes roughly 2–4% Viura in the 2022.

Tasting Notes: Ripe red and dark berries lead the aromatic profile, joined by plum, subtle spice, licorice, and mineral notes. The palate is medium-bodied and finely textured, with juicy fruit, polished tannins, and a savory, slightly chalky character that keeps the wine fresh and composed. The finish is persistent, structured, and energetic without feeling heavy.

Structure: Medium-bodied, fine-grained, fresh, and structured, with polished tannins and excellent balance.

Drink Window: 2025–2034

Decanting: Decant for approximately 30–45 minutes if opening now. The wine is already approachable, but a modest amount of air will help the fruit, spice, and mineral character become more expressive.

For buyers looking to experience Artadi without stepping immediately into the estate’s rarest single-vineyard bottlings, the 2022 Viñas de Gaín is an especially attractive choice. It has enough freshness and refinement for the dinner table, enough structure for several years in the cellar, and the pedigree to make it a thoughtful bottle for gifting or introducing someone to modern Rioja Alavesa.