Viña Tondonia Rosé Gran Reserva 1998

Characteristics of the vintage:: Recorded by The Regulating Body as VERY GOOD. The quantity was higher than in 1997 although it was not a vintage of high yields, especially for red grapes since the materialization of the grape Garnacha was not good. We harvested 600,587 kilos. Due to the early spring frosts of April 11th and 14th, the crop was considerably reduced. Viña Tondonia was more affected than Viña Bosconia. In June the vines showed excellent growth. Normal hot temperatures and low rain levels helped. September was relatively dry and sunny. The Rain in October delayed the start of the harvest but due to the low yields maturation was perfect as was the quality of the grapes. In general it was a dry year for the average of Rioja Alta: 500 litres/m² We started harvesting the red grapes on October 18th. We do not make Rosé every year but due to the good quality we decided to make Gran Reserva Rosé from Viña Tondonia.
Tasting note:: Colour: Onion skin, velvety, hints at becoming tawny. Nose: Fresh and persistent.Taste:Smooth and fresh with body and complexity due to barrel ageing.
Grape Varieties:: Tempranillo (30%), Garnacho (60%) and Viura (10%) all from our own vineyards.
Ageing period in barrels:: 4 and a half years, being racked twice a year and fined with fresh egg whites.
Ageing period in bottle:: Rest, unfiltered, bottled in 75 cl. bottles.
Alcohol Volume:: 12.5% Vol.
Total Acidity:: 6 g/l.
Residual Sugar:: Very Dry.
Gastronomy:: This versatile wine will complement any dish, especially in the summer, due to its freshness. It goes very well with spicy and hot food; perfect with cold meats and Spanish sausages. Many gastronomes have commented that it combines very well with Indian, Mexican and Chinese-style food.
Storage Tempertaure:: 10 years in conditions of constant temperature (14ºC) and humidity (75-80%).
Serving Temperature:: 10-12ºC, depending on the time and place. If very hot, can be chilled to 8ºC.
Quantity made:: 10,000 bottles.