2020 Pujanza Norte

The 2020 Bodegas Pujanza Norte is a refined, single-vineyard red from the high-altitude slopes of Rioja Alavesa, crafted to showcase Tempranillo in its most precise and expressive form. Sitting at the intersection of classic Rioja character and modern elegance, it offers structure, freshness, and depth in equal measure. Sourced from an elevated, north-facing site above Laguardia, Pujanza Norte has become one of the region’s benchmark wines, illustrating how altitude and limestone soils can bring a strikingly pure, almost Atlantic-influenced style to Rioja red wine.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2020 Pujanza Norte shows a deep, vibrant ruby colour with a youthful rim, hinting at its concentration and energy. The nose is detailed and layered, with aromas of wild red and black berries, ripe cherry, and plum interwoven with notes of dried herbs, violets, graphite, and subtle spice from well-judged French oak—think cedar, cocoa nib, and a touch of sweet baking spice. On the palate, this is a focused, medium to full-bodied Tempranillo with finely etched tannins and a pronounced, almost saline freshness that reflects its high-altitude origin. Flavours of blackberry, redcurrant, black cherry, and damson are supported by nuances of licorice, tobacco leaf, and mineral-laced earth, giving the wine both drive and complexity. The oak is beautifully integrated, adding texture and polish without overshadowing the fruit. The finish is long, precise, and mouthwatering, with a lingering note of spice and stone. With its structure and acidity, the 2020 vintage has excellent aging potential—expect it to evolve gracefully over 10–15 years, gaining more savoury, tertiary complexity while retaining its core of fruit and minerality.

Production
Pujanza Norte comes from a single, north-facing vineyard located at high altitude in Rioja Alavesa, near the village of Laguardia. The site sits on poor, limestone-rich clay soils that naturally limit yields and concentrate flavour, while the elevation and exposure provide cooler temperatures and a wide day–night temperature swing, preserving acidity and aromatic finesse. The vineyard is planted predominantly to Tempranillo, with vines that are now mature and deeply rooted, giving a natural balance and intensity. Grapes are harvested by hand in small boxes, with a strict selection both in the vineyard and at the winery to ensure only perfectly ripe, healthy fruit is used. Vinification typically involves a temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel or concrete to protect purity of fruit, followed by aging in mainly French oak barrels for around a year. The use of French oak and a measured proportion of new wood brings structure and polish while allowing the terroir’s mineral and floral notes to remain front and centre.

Food & Serving
This Rioja Alavesa red is a versatile partner at the table, particularly well-suited to flavourful yet refined dishes. Pair it with grilled or roasted lamb, aged Manchego or other firm sheep’s cheeses, Iberian pork chops, duck breast, or earthy dishes like wild mushroom risotto and roasted root vegetables. It also shines alongside charcuterie, slow-braised beef, or herb-crusted rack of lamb. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to highlight its aromatics and freshness. Younger bottles will benefit from 1–2 hours in a decanter to soften the tannins and open up the bouquet, while more mature examples can be gently double-decanted shortly before serving to preserve their delicate tertiary notes.

Producer
Bodegas Pujanza is a quality-focused, estate-driven winery based in Laguardia, at the heart of Rioja Alavesa. Founded by Carlos San Pedro, whose family has deep viticultural roots in the region, the bodega was established with a clear philosophy: to craft wines that transparently reflect their individual vineyard sites rather than rely on blending across large areas. All wines are made exclusively from estate-grown fruit, with an emphasis on high-altitude vineyards and limestone-rich soils that lend precision, tension, and elegance. Over the years, Pujanza has become one of the leading names in modern Rioja Alavesa, recognized for its single-vineyard bottlings such as Pujanza Norte, which regularly receive strong critical acclaim. The winery’s work has helped redefine Rioja’s image, shifting the focus towards terroir, site expression, and a more contemporary, refined style of aging that highlights freshness as much as depth.

We deliver within 2 - 6 business days. You can choose whether it should be to a parcel shop or home delivery. Free delivery to both parcel shops and your front door. Our store partners primarily use GLS, DPD, UPS and DHL for deliveries. We cover deliveries to the majority of countries in Europe.