Milenrama Rosado Rioja DOCa 2020

Milenrama is the project of Ruth de Andrés, a rapidly rising star in Rioja winemaking. With an impressive resumé that includes oenology and chemistry degrees from three countries, experience in Bordeaux and the Penedès, and sommelier-course teaching, her latest venture is value-driven: “vinos buenos, bonitos y baratos - good, honest, inexpensive everyday wine.” Named for the Spanish word for the yarrow flower, which grows in abundance in Rioja (and is depicted on the label), Milenrama delivers the goods with this rosado, which is mostly garnacha (80%) with a touch of the white viura grape (20%). The garnacha macerates for four hours to acquire a bright salmon color, then is fermented and rested in stainless steel before bottling. Generous aromas of papaya and watermelon give way to a dry, medium-bodied palate bursting with watermelon, strawberries, and a hint of guava on a clean, snappy finish.