2020 Norzagarai Las Franjas Tinto, 750ml

Santiago Norzagarai is a Rioja producer making wines unlike any others in the region. Many things set him apart.  First of all, he is from Buenos Aires, though he has lived in Spain for 25 years. Secondly, he is working in the Rioja Alavesa with organic vineyards. Thirdly, he is making non-oaky, not-overly-extracted, meant-to-be-drinkable wines with a “non-interventionist approach.”  In other words, Norzagarai is trying to change the stylistic perception of wines in Rioja.  

The Las Franjas Tinto is cherry-red wine with a fun, medium-intense nose full of red fruit, cherry, white pepper, and a touch of cedar. It has well balanced acidity, smooth tannins, and a fruity, spicy vibe that lingers with a nice, medium-long finish.