Jon Cañas (Luis Cañas’ grandson) is the imaginative winemaker behind Bodegas Amaren, having been given free rein to explore the character of Alavesa’s vineyards.
Jon aims to create a raw, modern interpretation of Rioja Alavesa by employing native yeasts for his ferments, and experimenting with concrete vessels and lees ageing to achieve expressive wines that are respectful of the ancient grape varieties he works with. The hierarchy of the Amaren range ignores the traditional classification of Rioja wines (Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva) and instead puts ‘Rioja Alavesa’ at the forefront of the label, thereby emphasizing the importance of place.
Pale yellow and intense, bright-green hues. A wine of great aromatic complexity. On the nose there is ripe fruit such as pineapple and pears as well as delicate floral aromas such as orange blossom, dried flower petals, nutmeg, and pastry such as “brioche”. A full fruit sensation gives way to floral and balsamic essences on the after taste. Very complex. The ageing on its fine lees and “bâtonnage” ensures a rich and full flavour, dense full bodied and long.
