Ganko Olivier Riviere 2016

Tasting Notes

Take a sip of Ganko and you'll be greeted by a burst of ripe blackberries and cassis. Hints of leather and snuff add complexity, while the palate is beautifully balanced. The juicy fruit flavors tango with smooth tannins, leading to a lingering finish of roasted coffee. Look for a deep cherry color with a garnet rim as you swirl it in the glass.

Background

French winemaker Olivier Rivière originally set his sights on France, honing his craft with biodynamic and organic methods in Burgundy and Bordeaux. But fate intervened in 2004 when a Rioja producer sought his expertise. Captivated by the region, Olivier never left. He meticulously sources top-quality grapes, hand-harvested from his Rioja vineyards. Inspired by Burgundy, he utilizes small tanks, including oak, and often incorporates stems during fermentation. Aging occurs in large barrels, with minimal intervention guiding the grapes' unique voice. A perfectionist's approach defines Olivier's work, ensuring each wine reflects its terroir. This dedication earned him the nickname "Ganko" from a Japanese importer, meaning "stubborn" – a fitting title for an outsider making his own way in Rioja.

Production Process

Ganko weaves together 80% Garnacha and 20% Mazuelo grapes from ancient vines in Cárdenas, Rioja Alta. To craft this complex wine, Olivier employs time-honored methods. Whole bunches are fermented, each grape variety vinified separately, and the mixture soaks on the skins for 20-30 days. The final touch? Aging for 16-18 months in a mix of seasoned and new French oak barrels.