El Puntido 2021 | Viñedos de Páganos | Rioja

El Puntido is a red wine produced by Viñedos de Páganos, located in Rioja Alavesa, Spain. Sourced from the single vineyard Finca El Puntido, situated in Páganos-Laguardia at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level, this 2021 vintage is crafted exclusively from Tempranillo grapes. The estate’s vines were planted in 1975 and are cultivated using integrated agriculture with organic fertilization. The soil composition is characterized as clay-loamy in texture and calcareous-clay in composition.

The winemaking process begins with destemming the grapes, followed by a five-day pre-fermentative maceration at 6°C. Fermentation is driven by native yeasts, supported by gentle pumping over with slight aeration to facilitate the process. After primary fermentation, the wine undergoes a nine-day post-fermentative maceration with the skins. The malolactic fermentation takes place in new French oak barriques. The wine is then aged for 16 months in these new French oak barrels, followed by an additional six months of rest in tank before bottling.

This rigorous vinification and ageing regimen contributes to a structured and complex profile typical of high-altitude Riojas. The use of new French oak imparts distinct woody notes, while the extended skin contact ensures depth and tannic structure. The wine reflects the specific terroir of its clay-loamy soils and cool climate conditions at 600 meters.

The Wine Advocate (Parker) awarded this vintage a score of 94 points, indicating high quality. This recognition highlights the successful integration of traditional winemaking methods with modern precision in handling the Tempranillo variety. El Puntido stands as a significant expression of Viñedos de Páganos’ commitment to quality, showcasing the characteristics of its historic vineyard site through careful fermentation and extended oak ageing.