Cortijo is made from 100% Tempranillo grown in Rioja Alta, offering an introduction to the region and an opportunity to taste a “no makeup” version of the grape that forms the backbone of some of Spain’s most famous wines. The moderately warm days and cool nights of the Rioja Alta’s continental Atlantic climate allows the grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in wines with bright, youthful aromas and vibrant fruit flavors. After harvest, the grapes undergo a five-day pre-fermentation “cold soak” to enhance the aromas, color and flavor. Once fermentation has completed, the wine spends another 10 days in tank on skins to extract additional color and tannins. Subsequently 50% of the wine is aged for 2-3 months in 3-year-old French oak barrels and 50% in stainless steel tanks. The oak regimen helps oxygenate the wine, promoting softer tannins, and a better integration and balance of all components without imparting oak flavor.