لا ريوخا ألتا فينيا أردانزا ريوخا ريسيرفا 2019

The boldness really surprised me in the best way—it's got that smooth, oaky kick that reminds me of a good bourbon. Perfect with a grilled steak.

Brought this to a dinner party where half the guests usually drink California Cabs, and it disappeared fast—the balance of bold fruit and earthy spice is spot-on. For a traditional Rioja, it's surprisingly approachable.

Opened this for a bourbon-drinking friend and even he was impressed—it’s got that bold grip but stays surprisingly elegant on the finish. The fact it’s made the same way as in the 1890s really comes through in the layered, old-school character. We killed the bottle in one sitting.