Monowai Hawkes Upper Reaches Merlot 2020

Crianza is the style of choice, drunk in Rioja. This is a beautifully judged 2018 from the renowned Martinez Bujanda estate, regarded as 'royalty' in the region. We've been friends with the family since they completed their state-of-the-art winery in 1984. Nearly four decades on, the cellar remains one of the finest in Europe and has collected a huge number of awards. Its impressive winemaker is Lauren Rosillo. This Crianza is from the family's superb Finca Valpiedra estate, whose extensive vineyard is superbly situated in a bend of the Ebro river. Made from all estate-grown Tempranillo, aged a year in American oak, its bright red fruits mingle with gentle oak. A great choice with charcuterie.