DeAlto
Rioja, ES
Established in the Rioja Oriental sub-zone of Rioja, deAlto is an unconventional producer of brilliant wines that aim to maximise the fruit potential of this great region. Responding to the need for a more sustainable future that harnesses the best vineyards to produce pure Rioja. And this is why they fit into our portfolio so perfectly.
DeAlto wines are crafted by a team, led by Master of Wine Giles Cooke. Having established a reputation for making some of Australia’s finest expressions of Grenache, Giles is now coming full circle to utilise his experience in the region that he first fell in love with.
The “tradicional” wines follow the path laid down over centuries, but with the emphasis on balance, fruit and freshness rather than a simple reliance on oak aging. While the foundations of these wines will always be Tempranillo, they benefit from generous use of the beloved Garnacha as well.
El Primero is sourced from 3 different parcels of fruit: Old vine low trellised garnacha, old bush vine tempranillo and the final parcel being younger garnacha fruit. An unashamedly contemporary style of rioja that relies not on oak or age but on quality of fruit and a subtle, nuanced approach to winemaking. The fruit is vibrant, lifted and energetic, there are hints of woodspice, wild cherry and thyme.