Bodegas Casa La Rad Solarce Red 16

Winery	Bodegas Casa La Rad
Region	Rioja
Appellation	Rioja
Type	Red Wine
Varietal	Tempranillo blend
Vineyard Size	37 acres
Soil	Chalky clay
Vineyard Orientation	530-600 meters
Farming Practice	Organic – Non Certified
Maturation	Aged for 8 months in 225L new French oak barrels
Vintage	2016

Solarce are the entry level wines from the Casa la Rad estate in Rioja Baja. The large, family-owned estate is located in the northern foothills of the Valle de Ocón, and encompasses 2,000 acres; mostly native oak forest, with 272 acres of vineyards, and 37 acres of olive groves. The remainder of the estate is dedicated to growing almonds and cereal crops. They seek a balance between their activity and the local environment so as to sustain or improve its vitality and biodiversity.

92pts Wine Align– 2016 vintage

“Attractive cinnamon and cedar perfume join a floral top note, alongside fresh red and black fruit in a stylish ensemble. The palate is silky smooth, finely detailed, with light, dusty tannins and very good length. An elegant and sophisticated wine, high quality, and complex.”

91pts Vinous– 2016 vintage

“Brilliant violet color. Pungent, spice-tinged cherry and redcurrant scents are complemented by mineral and woodsmoke notes and a hint of mocha. Sappy and energetic on the palate, offering juicy red fruit preserves, spicecake and violet pastille flavors that convey an appealing blend of richness and delicacy. Finishes taut, smoky and quite long, leaving suggestions of candied flowers and cola behind. 2021 – 2028”

89pts Wine Spectator– 2016 vintage

“This expressive red offers fruitcake flavors, with candied cherry, orange peel, vanilla and nutmeg notes mingling over citrusy acidity and light tannins. Drink now through 2028. 1,670 cases made.”