Mazuelo

Mazuelo is a red grape variety primarily cultivated in the Rioja region of Spain, but can be found in various parts of the world under different names such as Carignan in France and Carignano in Italy. It is known for its high acidity, deep colour, and tannic potency, making it a popular addition in blends to provide structure and longevity to the wine.

The Mazuelo grape is capable of thriving in hot and dry climates where other grape varieties may struggle. This makes it a valuable asset for winemakers in regions that are subjected to such conditions. When grown in cooler climates, the Mazuelo grape tends to produce wines with a strict and austere character. The grape's deep robust colour contributes to the rich and dark appearance of the wines it crafts.

The grape's vegetal character produces wines with flavours of dark fruits, such as blackcurrants, teamed with a spicy, peppery kick and undercurrents of earthiness. On their own, wines from the Mazuelo grape can be fierce and high in tannin. This is why they are often blended with other grape varieties, predominantly Tempranillo in Spain. This pairing balances the bold strength of Mazuelo with Tempranillo's fruitier and softer characteristics.

Despite the grape's traditional role as a blending partner, some winemakers have experimented with Mazuelo as a stand-alone variety. These wines typically require a bit of aging to mellow out the grape's rugged nature. Over the past few years, it has regained some appreciation, with wine producers and consumers taking a growing interest in this variety for its bold and distinctive characteristics, especially appreciating its capability to produce high-quality wines. The Mazuelo grape’s robust and striking profile undeniably adds richness, complexity, and an exciting flair to the world of viticulture.

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