Artuke: ‘Of the greatest reds in Spain’ – Tim Atkin
Artuke: ‘Of the greatest reds in Spain’ – Tim Atkin
Artuke
‘Of the greatest reds in Spain’ – Tim Atkin
'Arturo de Miguel makes some of the greatest reds in Spain,’ says Tim Atkin MW, who’s scored his famous La Condenada 100 points twice over the past couple of years. What’s more, the 2020 Artuke Condenada was ‘only the second Rioja (and the first red) to achieve perfection in my book’, notes Tim.
The whole-bunch, crunchy, violet, tasty young Tinto from Artuke is 'increíble' (say it with a Spanish accent). The 2023 is a blend of 95% Tempranillo with 5% Viura, and it’s one of the best tapas wines around. It should be on every table, and in every bar and restaurant this summer.
The Miguel brothers' Finca de los Locos ('vineyard of the crazy people') is a homage to their grandfather. His neighbours thought him crazy for buying a plot of land up on the hill away from the river, instead of next to it where the fertile soils were considered best. The vineyard is a field blend of 75% Tempranillo, 20% Graciano and 5% Viura and so is the wine. Made with a light touch, the 2022 is delicate, juicy and chalky with great florals and freshness. 'This is definitely worth a sip’ (Vinous).
Also on offer are their other old-vine, single-site cuvées: Trascuevas (blanco), Paso las Mañas (tinto), El Escolladero (tinto), and La Condenada (tinto) – all farmed biodynamically and each with its own story and charm.
