This better-than-it-has-to-be Rioja, made of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano, is from organic vineyards in the Rioja Alta. It’s a modern-style Rioja with focus on concentrated fruit aged in mostly French oak. The result is rich black cherry fruit enhanced with spicy pepper and floral violet notes. On the palate the fruit is concentrated while balanced with savory acidity and finishing with chalky tannins. It’s a bit slow to show itself, so open an hour or two in advance of pouring.
