Bodegas Valdelana Rioja VI-VE 2022

Bodegas Valdelana has been farming vines in Rioja Alavesa for fourteen generations. VI-VE is the project of Juan Valdelana — a tribute to the winegrowers of the region, and especially to his grandfather Isidoro. The name comes from the tractor plate acronym used across the Basque Country: VI for Vitoria, VE for Vehículo Especial. Made using traditional carbonic maceration — whole grape clusters vinified without destemming, crushing, pressing, or additions of any kind — it is a wine of minimal intervention and maximum personality.

About This Wine

A joyful, fruit-filled Rioja Alavesa Tempranillo made in the old-school carbonic maceration style — vibrant, juicy, and bursting with energy. This is the kind of wine that previous generations of Rioja winegrowers made for themselves: honest, lively, and deeply satisfying.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Bright ruby with a vivid, youthful hue
Nose: Vibrant and aromatic — fresh strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, red flowers, and a hint of liquorice
Palate: Fruit-forward, juicy, and lively with candied berries, fresh cherries, and red plums; soft mouthfeel and integrated acidity
Finish: Smooth and refreshing with a clean, fruit-driven close

Food Pairing

Perfect with cured meats — jamón, of course — assorted cheeses, and fresh bread. Also excellent with lamb, chicken, grilled meats, and pork.

Details

Grape: Tempranillo
Region: Rioja, Spain
Farming: Traditional
Style: Medium Bodied Red
Serving Temperature: 14–16°C
Alcohol: 13%
Bottle: 75cl
Drink: In the next four years