The Rioja Experience: Premium Selection Box

This is an exceptional Rioja, it’s not often that a wine completely stops you in its tracks. Mainly the Tempranillo grape with some Graciano and Monastrell, Remelluri Reserva has so much going on in it its hard to know where to start. A wine to impress. Remelluri is the family estate of Telmo Rodriguez, a man who is considered one of the best wine makers in Spain. Having worked in Bordeaux, Rhone and Provence, he returned to Spain to his beloved Remelluri.

Oh my god, give me more! This wine really delivers on what you expect from a Gran Reserva. Its a full-on, rich and unctuous wine that will stain your lips. Dark red fruit layered with caramel, mocha and vanilla flavours. This  is a great wine either as a treat for yourself, or as a gift for someone special. Although El Coto is a young winery by Rioja standards, having been founded in 1970, it is one of the most well recognised ones globally due to the excellent value for money at all levels. Gran Reservas are only produced in exceptional years and this 2018 is worth waiting for.      

Izadi Rioja Reserva is a stunning red wine from the heart of Rioja, crafted entirely from Tempranillo grapes. With a deep ruby colour, it offers a complex bouquet of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, intertwined with enticing notes of vanilla, spice, and toasted oak, a testament to its 16 months of ageing in French and American oak barrels. On the palate, this full-bodied wine reveals layers of rich dark fruit, cocoa, and a hint of leather, beautifully balanced by good acidity and well-structured tannins. The long, lingering finish is marked by a rich aromatic intensity, showcasing a delightful balance of red fruit, liquorice, and subtle spices, with a whisper of smoke in the background. Produced by Bodegas Izadi, a family-owned winery in Villabuena de Álava, this Reserva reflects a commitment to sustainable winemaking practices while employing both traditional and modern techniques to honour the region’s terroir. This versatile wine pairs beautifully with steak, grilled meats, roast lamb, casseroles, charcuterie, and hard cheeses, making it an excellent choice for hearty meals. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further maturation, Izadi Rioja Reserva is perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking a smooth and layered red that embodies the rich character of the Rioja region.

A juicy, fun and vibrant Rioja, made without any oak. An absolutely gorgeous glass that is very more-ish; chewy, with liquorice hints and full of summer berry fruits. This would be very refreshing served slightly chilled. All you need to do is close your eyes and imagine you are in Spain! The Flying Bicycle is made by Germán Blanco, one of the coolest guys around who has made a serious name for himself despite being so young. He focuses on minimal intervention and letting the grapes speak for themselves, and this one is organic. A serious must try for those who love Spanish reds.

2020 NOFFLA RED WINE OF THE YEAR!. A brilliant value Rioja Crianza. Elegant with strawberry and raspberry aromas with notes of vanilla, spices, and red fruit compote. Fresh, pleasant and balanced wine with a long finish. Made from Garnacha, Tempranillo and Graciano and produced by the iconic house of Lopez de Haro. It spends 18 months in American and French oak which adds body, depth and a touch of sweetness to the spicy fruit character.

A beautifully refined Rioja, aged for six and a half years in French oak barrels, showing a fresh and delicate nose with subtle hints of vanilla and smoky, earthy notes. The palate is a real treat—aromatic and layered, with a silky smooth texture and perfectly balanced tannins. You'll pick up juicy flavors of ripe blackberry, cassis, and cherry, complemented by a touch of damson plum. The oak influence is subtle but brings in lovely hints of tobacco, black pepper, and soft leather, leading to a long, satisfying finish. It’s drinking beautifully now and has great potential for further ageing. 95/100 Wine Advocate Points"The 2012 Viña Tondonia Reserva comes from a very dry year, with 25% less rain than the average (at the time), resulting in lower yields of very healthy grapes that delivered wines with nice balance between alcohol and polyphenols, making it very apt for the aging in barrel. It had a slightly longer élevage in barrel, six years. The wine is aromatic with a developed profile, spicy and tertiary (forest floor, a touch of brick dust and iodine), complex and nuanced. The palate is full and round, with polished tannins and a long, dry finish. It has a textbook Tondonia nose and profile"  Luis Gutierrez Wine Advocate