Iberian bargains: ‘Judge a winery by their cheapest bottle’ – Tim Atkin

Iberian bargains

‘Judge a winery by their cheapest bottle’ – Tim Atkin

Drink deliciousness. This is what these Rioja value reds from our newly arrived Spanish shipment offer. They’re ready-to-drink wines at low prices from legendary producers – Artuke, López de Heredia, La Rioja Alta and Torre de Oña.

Artuke’s brilliant carbonic-macerated red, Tinto 2023, is made from mostly Tempranillo with 5% Viura grapes, and it should honestly be everyone’s go-to red. Light, fresh and juicy with so much personality and verve, it’s a ‘textbook example of the category’, says the Wine Advocate. ‘Unwooded Rioja at its individual best’, notes Tim Atkin.

The Torre de Oña Finca San Martin 2020 bridges the gap between the traditional and more modern styles of wine in Spain’s most famous wine region. 100% Tempranillo, this red is spritely and seductive with black and red cherries, cedar forest-floor aromatics with smooth tannins and a balsamic finish. It's easy to see why this is one of our best-sellers.

JIberian bargains: ‘Judge a winery by their cheapest bottle’ – Tim Atkin

Then there’s the new La Rioja Alta Viña Alberdi Reserva 2019 – another pure Tempranillo that’s a step-up in layers and complexity from the previous two. It’s earthy, inky and reminiscent of smoked paprika and dried sea shells on the beach, with a lemony acidity. There’s so much sophistication here for only R415.

Finally, from the oldest of old school bodegas, López de Heredia, comes one of the world best value reds and a personal favourite. Viña Cubillo Crianza 2016 is a blend of Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, and 5% each of Graciano and Mazuelo. It’s ‘surprising, spectacular, elegant, clean and fresh like few vintages before’, says the Wine Advocate. Expect earth, chalk, dried violets, truffle, pomegranate and super energy.

Rioja is a treasure trove of quality and value with many wines aged before release. Check out our entire collection here. If you’re interested in receiving the Privé allocation offers for López de Heredia, La Rioja Alta, Artuke and more, please email Jolette@winecellar.co.za.

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