Ahari is a characterful red wine from Oxer Bastegieta, a small grower founded in 2009 and based in Laguardia in Spain's Rioja region. Working organically across old vineyards in Elvillar and Cardenas, the producer champions native varieties and a natural, low-intervention approach. The name draws on Basque folklore, and the striking label nods to Picasso's Guernica.
A blend led by Tempranillo from old vines with Graciano and a touch of Viura, the fruit is hand-harvested and fermented spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in large wooden vessels. The wine then rests in used French oak for around twelve months, preserving freshness and detail.
Expect a red of juicy freshness and finely balanced, gently grippy tannins, with flavours of blueberry and black cherry framed by herbal thyme and a floral lift of violet. It is a food-friendly Rioja with genuine personality.