Bodegas Maisulan Joven 2021 – Rioja Alavesa, Spain

Maisulan is an organic red wine from Rioja Alavesa, created with respect for both tradition and nature. The wine is made from 90% Tempranillo and 10% Viura – an unusual but exciting blend, where the fresh acidity of the Viura grape lifts the dark fruit of the Tempranillo and gives the wine an elegant balance.

In the glass, the wine opens with an inviting nose of cherries, blueberries and a subtle touch of violets and spices. The palate is juicy and medium-bodied with lively fruit, fine tannins and a mineral finish. Because the wine is not barrel-aged, it appears light, fruit-driven and immediately charming – perfect for those who prefer an authentic Rioja without heavy woody notes.

Behind the wine is winemaker Gonzalo Celayeta, who works uncompromisingly with organic cultivation, manual harvesting and minimal intervention in the cellar. The wine is spontaneously fermented with natural yeast, aged briefly in steel tanks and bottled unfiltered, unclarified and without stabilization. Sulphur is only used in very small quantities.