Prodigus Venit 2018 | La Sonsierra | Rioja

Wine Identification
Prodigus Venit is a red wine produced by El Vino Pródigo, from the 2018 vintage. It hails from the DOCa Rioja appellation in Spain.

Origin and Winemaking
The grapes are sourced from San Vicente de la Sonsierra, located at an altitude of 550 meters. The vineyards consist of 80-year-old vines planted with 100% Tempranillo. Vinification begins with fermentation in an open concrete lagar, followed by long maceration in concrete vats. The wine undergoes aging for nine months in new mixed barrels of American and French oak.

Expected Profile or Tasting Notes
As a red Rioja made from old-vine Tempranillo, this wine reflects the traditional characteristics of the region, influenced by its high-altitude origin which typically preserves acidity and aromatic complexity. The extended maceration in concrete suggests a focus on texture and fruit integrity, while the nine-month aging in new American and French oak contributes to its structure and flavor profile. The use of mixed oak barrels likely imparts a balance between the vanilla and coconut notes characteristic of American oak and the subtler spice and toast elements associated with French oak.

Critics' Scores and Comments
Tim Atkin awarded this wine a score of 91.

Overall Character
Prodigus Venit represents a classic expression of Rioja, combining old-vine fruit with careful winemaking techniques. The combination of concrete fermentation for purity and new oak aging for complexity positions it as a structured and refined red wine, recognized by Tim Atkin for its quality.