SALBIDE Rioja 2008 Producer Salbide is a new wine from Izadi, made from grapes sourced from the heart of Alavesa. Their aim was to produce a young, juicy red that could be drunk at an earlier stage than a Crianza. The name Salbide means .horses. path. in Basque, which refers to the ancient route across the nearby Sierra de Cantabria mountain range. Vineyards The grapes come from Lalo.s own vineyards near the town of Lagurardia in the heart of Rioja Alavesa, the smallest of the three Rioja sub-zones. The vines are well sheltered here from the cold Northerly wines by the Sierra de Cantabria mountain range, allowing the Tempranillo grapes to ripen perfectly. Vinification Fermented was in stainless steel tanks before ageing in a mixture of used French and American oak for a period of 4 months to soften some of the wine.s youthful vigour and add flavour, texture and complexity. Tasting Notes Deep ruby in colour with purple tints. On the nose it has a vibrant, pure perfume of plums, raspberries and violets. It is concentrated and juicy on the palate with subtle notes of vanilla oak and a refreshing finish. Find this wine at www.winestore.co.uk Price: £116.66 (Including VAT at 20%)