Bodegas Amaren, Ángeles de Amaren, DOCa Rioja, Spain, 2020

Producer Profile

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.

Viticulture

The Amaren brand began in 1995 and was until recently the premium range from Luis Cañas. Following the immense commercial and critical success of these wines, Juan Luis determined it was time to create a winery devoted exclusively to their creation. At Amaren, he seeks perfection at every stage of the process; in the vineyard, during selection, and throughout the processing and ageing. And with nearly 50 percent of the vineyards older than 60 years, +90% of the plots are in Samaniego village, as well as a rational and environmentally friendly form of viticulture.

Winemaking

Manual harvested in small crates. On arrival at the winery, the grapes undergo a double sorting (bunches and berries). Alcoholic fermentation of each variety is carried out separately: Tempranillo in concrete vats and Graciano in French oak vats. Ageing is for 16 months in total, with 10% of the wine aged in concrete tulip tanks and the rest in 225L barrels made of French, American, and Hungarian oak — half of which are new.

Tasting Note

This wine presents a bright, clean colour and an expressive nose, where fresh menthol and balsamic notes of wild herbs mingle with blueberry, anise, nutmeg, and the richness of Rioja Alavesa Tempranillo—blackberry, liquorice, dried fig, and plum—layered with subtle mineral hints. Silky and round on the palate, it balances ripe fruit with fresh acidity and fine tannins, while the altitude of Leza and Samaniego vineyards lends depth and tension. The finish lingers with spicy and balsamic notes, adding complexity and charm.

Food Matching

Mild curries, white meats in sauces, pasta with white and red sauces, grilled mushrooms, foie-gras, salmon.