2024 Nivarius Tempranillo Blanco Rioja ($16.99)

91 points James Suckling: "This has a nervy lifted nose of limes, salt and green apples. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, crisp and sharp in an elegant way. (ZS)" (06/2025)

2023 Sierra de Tolono Blanco Rioja ($21.99)

93 points Tim Atkin: ""I'm not worried about the wine's alcohol level," says Sandra Bravo, and nor should she be, given how intense this wine is at just 11.5%. Picked early for freshness and focus, it's a pure Viura that's fermented and lees-aged in stainless steel, with top notes of aniseed and wild thyme, pithy, crunchy citrus fruit flavours and a flinty finish." (06/2025)

92 points Decanter: "Perfumed nose with elegant, clearly etched notes of melon, Asian pear, camomile and apple blossom. The palate surprises for its focus and textural appeal, built around delicious salinity, lively acid and a robust mineral backbone. Finishes with a tail of fennel, white grapefruit zest and pear peel. A really interesting and pure take on Viura, from Rioja Alavesa. (IS)" (09/2024)

91 points Wine Advocate: "The clean and aromatic, young white 2023 Blanco de Sierra de Toloño has gained in complexity with one more year in bottle. On top of the herbal notes and the sensation of freshness, it shows more nuance, a savory, chicken broth-like twist. With only 11.5% alcohol, it has very good freshness and acidity, reflected by a pH of 3.23. It's still young and fruit driven. It matured in stainless steel with lees and was bottled unoaked (in January 2024). 91+ (LG)" (02/2025)

K&L Notes: Sandra Bravo, vigneron, member of the "Rioja n' Roll" group of young winemakers in Rioja, and a real up-and-coming talent, did not grow up in a vine growing or winemaking family. She studied, learned on the job, and when an opportunity arose to purchase a small bodega in Rioja Alavesa, she went for it. This white is produced from vines interspersed amongst the Tempranillo vines in a few of her Rioja Alavesa parcels. It is brisk and mineral, with a cool vintage Chablis quality to it. Highly recommended.

2022 Olivier Riviere "Rayos Uva" Rioja ($21.99)

92 points James Suckling: "A fragrant red Rioja blend with dark fruit, spices and dried herbs. The palate is fluid and medium- to full-bodied with supple tannins, dark fruit character and a pleasant, spicy finish. (JGA)" (10/2024)

90 points Wine Advocate: "90+ points. The young, pale, bright ruby red 2022 Rayos Uva has primary grapes notes, hints of grape pulp and ripe berries. It's juicy and fleshy, with ripe fruit flavors, a tender mouthfeel and fine tannins. It was produced with a blend of 40% Garnacha and Tempranillo and 20% Graciano fermented and destemmed and matured in tank. It has 13.5% alcohol and has nice balance. (LG)" (02/2024)

2019 Proelio "Vinedos Viejos" Garnacha Rioja ($21.99)

93 points Tim Atkin: "Proelio's "entry-point" Garnacha uses equal proportions of grapes from high-altitude vineyards in Badarán and Cardenas between 600 and 700 metres. Aged in large foudres, it's a crunchy, sappy, effortlessly concentrated red that doesnt show the heat of the vintage, with raspberry and red cherry fruit and savoury tannins. 2024-29" (02/2023)

92 points James Suckling: "Aromas of blueberries, black cherries and raspberries with hints of cured meat, licorice and bark. Medium-to full-bodied with firm tannins and a juicy mouth-feel. Crunchy and savory pomegranate notes with a silky texture and a fresh, fruity finish. Drink or hold." (05/2022)

K&L Notes: Proelio is a relatively new project in Rioja with a unique focus. It was established in 2012 and their focus, preserving older, higher elevation vineyards. These vineyards are throughout Rioja. With the greatest concentration in the upper Najerilla valley in Rioja Alta and in the foothills of Rioja Alavesa. Their wines express the freshness and purity of those marginal growing sites. This is an unusual 100% Garnacha Rioja. It is sourced from old vineyard sites around the towns of Cardenas and Baderan, with an average age of 80 years. This is the historic region for growing Garnacha. The cool and long growing season and the iron-rich clay soils present a unique expression of Garnacha and Rioja. The grapes are hand harvested; they are fermented with native yeast in wooden vats with about 30% stem inclusion. The wine is then aged for one year in large (40HL and 30HL) French oak casks. Aromatic, deep and complex. This is a vibrantly flavored and colored wine that beautifully expresses its terroir in a very appealing way. Long and complex with layers of fruit, oak, and spice, this is a delicious, unique expression of Rioja.

2021 Berta Valgañón "Selección Natural" Rioja ($27.99)

91 points Tim Atkin: "Despite its name, this is not a natural wine, Berta Valgañón assures me. It's certainly a little funky and earthy, but that's part of the house style here. Made with co-fermented Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 5% Garnacha, it combines aromas of sage, pine and forest floor with sappy, cool climate acidity and savoury tannins." (06/2025)

2023 Berta Valgañón "Selección Maturana Tinta" Rioja ($29.99)

93 points Tim Atkin: "Región I is normally a varietal Maturana Tinta, but included 10% Garnacha in 2023 for added freshness. Based on grapes from comparatively young vines in the 1.24-hectare Finca San Chidrian, it has enticing green herb and black cherry flavours, firmish tannins and no oak whatsoever. Has the structure to age further in bottle." (06/2025)

Kerry Kennell | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 18, 2026

My goth past has come back to haunt me. This is winsome nostalgia in a glass. The 2023 Berta Valgañón Selección Maturana Tinta Rioja is dark, inky, and hypnotic, with intriguing notes of cassis, smoldering clove cigarette, glossy black lipstick, Chowards violet candies, incense, and leather, all wrapped in a plush, velvety mouthfeel. Its lights-out lovely and highly recommended. Made from Maturana Tinta with a splash of Garnacha by a one-woman winery with an annual output of a mere 1,500 cases. Pay attention as Berta Valgañón is one to watch!

Aaron Hughes | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 17, 2026

Yet another grape that I don't think I've had before. Maturana Tinta is the name, and being floral and juicy is its game, apparently, and I am definitely not mad about this. This is great, Rachael Ryan (Master of Wine candidate) compared this varietal to Mourvedre and I dig that comparison. There's just so much raspberry and violets with something a little more rich and buried deep in the background, a kind of plum skin, black cherry, and this dense earthiness. I love this nose and want it made into a candle. The palate is more dense and dark than I expected, but I'm not mad about it. There's an almost chewy aspect to the fruit and tannin, lots of dark black fruit and a little bit of more florals coming across on the palate. This is really fun, and definitely something to be had with a meal, but I could actually see having this with a nice fat potato and a good piece of meat or whatever protein you prefer. Very fun.

2020 Bideona "S4MG0 Vinas Viejas" Rioja (Previously $40) Price: Hidden

96 points Vinous: "The 2020 S4MG0 Viñas Viejas is 100% Tempranillo sourced from Samaniego, Rioja Alavesa, produced by Bideona as part of their effort to highlight specific places and towns in Rioja. Aged in concrete and foudres, this wine has a dark garnet hue. It offers aromas of plums and blackberry, accompanied by hints of sour cherry, petit four and truffle. On the palate, it is dry, bold and rich, with a liqueur-like character and fine-grained tannins that linger. A delightful red, it represents a modern expression of Rioja. Its clever and elusive name subtly references the place without explicitly mentioning it, in compliance with the labeling regulations in Rioja. (JH)" (12/2023)

94 points Penin Guide: "Style : defined aromasColour : deep cherryAroma : complex, expressive, spicy, mineralFlavour : full-bodied, long, great length" (07/2023)

93 points Tim Atkin: "Vineyards between 580 and 620 metres in the leading Rioja Alavesa village of Samaniego supply the raw material for this bush vine Tempranillo-based cuvée from Masters of Wine Sam Harrop and Andreas Kubach. Deftly wooded in 20% new French oak, it's racy, sappy and well balanced, with savoury tannins, prominent minerality and good fruit concentration. 2024-30" (02/2023)

93 points James Suckling: "Dark minerals, violets and blue and black fruit. Tight and reactive tannins, with a very good balance of fruit and structure. A wine that shows depth and power, with impressive complexity and length. Drink or hold." (11/2024)

Aaron Hughes | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: April 22, 2025

Rich and lush berry-driven nose with a little bit of potpourri in the background driving in some dried but lovely floral notes with a backing of oak spice and fresh tobacco. The palate is dense and almost chewy, with tannins slowly giving way to acidity, the fruit is rich, heavy, and ripe. There's some savory notes in the mid-palate, with a rich soy-umami and hints of toasted tobacco. Kirk is exceptionally excited about these new Bideona wines and I certainly can see why.

2022 Palacio del Burgo Crianza Rioja ($17.99)

95 points Decanter: "Burnished with plums, mulberries, cherries and plums embraced by a casing of generous vanilla oak and creamy texture, with scores of chalky tannins and a tobacco length. *Gold - Decanter World Wine Awards 2025*" (06/2025)

90 points James Suckling: "Cream and spices with a touch of toffee to the red berries, hibiscus and plums. Medium-bodied, well balanced and restrained. Pretty long finish. (ZS)" (06/2024)

K&L Notes: Palacio del Burgo is a wine label produced by Bodegas Burgo Viejo, an established Rioja winery based in Alfaro with more than 200 hectares of vineyards spanning varied soils and microclimates. The winery was founded in 1987 by six families of vine growers (and today comprises a larger group), merging tradition with shared expertise. Today, the estate works mostly with older Tempranillo vines—around 30 years on average—along with traditional Rioja varieties such as Garnacha, Carignan, and Graciano. The winery emphasizes careful vineyard management and selective harvesting to produce wines that express the character of Rioja, and many of its cuvées have earned strong critical recognition.

Aaron Hughes | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: December 09, 2025

The fruit is fairly bright and fresh and it twines with the fairly liberal use of American oak there's still a juiciness to the nose and a little touch of something floral around the edges. The palate has the brightness and kind of lighter overall body that you would expect from a Crianza, with a really great line of acidity and a light grip of tannin overall. There's some cedary kind of cigarbox notes that work with and blend with the lingering very slightly toasty but mostly fruity finish. This is a wine that overdelivers from start to finish, be it the rich touch of oak on the nose or the elegance of the whole drinking experience. For this price, it deserves a little more attention.

Matthew Landau Hassan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: December 04, 2025

The 2022 Palacio del Burgo Crianza is a polished, quietly charming Rioja that opens with warm red cherry, ripe plum, and a touch of sweet tobacco, all wrapped in subtle vanilla and spice from well-judged American oak. The palate is smooth and balanced, offering bright cherry and raspberry notes, soft tannins, and just a hint of cedar and earth to give it depth without weight.This is a weekday Rioja with weekend polishideal for roast chicken, pork loin, tapas, or nothing but a glass and good company. Its graceful, reliable, and charming in that effortless way only Rioja seems to pull off.

Scott Beckerley | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: December 04, 2025

This extremely pleasing Crianza has a nose of pure red cherry fruit infused with a nice bit of chalk and darker berries. On the palate, extremely supple and quite smooth with a nice bit of "bite" at the back of the throat. Creamy in texture with very juicy dark cherry fruit, a touch of hazelnut and a light dusty note. This will appeal and a large cross section of customers and there is even the benefit of a nicely lingering finish of cinnamon.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: December 04, 2025

This is easily one of the most impressive Riojas under $20 Ive tried this year. From the first sip, it achieves that perfect balance of bright red fruit, subtle oak, and firm structure that Rioja lovers seek. Its vibrant, its polished, and its effortlessly drinkable without feeling one-dimensional. A traditional blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano, the wine opens with ripe cherry and juicy plum notes, the wine is framed by vanilla and faint toasty oak, leading into a surprisingly long finish. Twelve months of aging in American oak barrels add a distinctly savory, umami-rich character, and the tannins are firm enough to give the wine backbone but soft enough that you dont need to think twice about opening it on a weeknight. In my opinion, its often far more challenging to find wines under $20 that are well-made and delicious, as opposed to more expensive bottles where quality is expected. This Rioja really overdelivers for its modest price, easily outcompeting more pricey Riojas. Pick up a few bottles or even a case you wont be disappointed.

2017 López de Heredia "Viña Cubillo" Crianza Rioja ($34.99)

94 points Tim Atkin: "Cubillo is always sold as a Crianza, partly because its always been done that way, but has nothing whatsoever to do with the kind of high-volume wines you find on supermarket shelves. Pairing Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha and 5% each of Graciano and Mazuelo, all from the 80-year-old Cubillas vineyard, this is sweet and savoury, with lots of racy cranberry acidity and sinewy tannins." (06/2024)

93 points Wine Advocate: "The super bargain of the portfolio has to be the red 2017 Viña Cubillo Tinto Crianza, which this year shows more development and faster aging, with more tertiary notes than the other reds from 2013 and 2014 that I tasted next to it. The frost of April 2017 killed 100% of the vegetal mass at Cubillo, and the grapes they picked were exclusively from the second generation, therefore fruit that ripened in a much shorter cycle, as the harvest was also earlier. It has notes of damp earth, mushrooms, truffles and forest floor, dry leaves and decayed flowers and herbs. It has a polished palate and is medium-bodied, with mostly resolved tannins, and it feels a little lighter. But it's still worth it. It was produced with a blend of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha and 5% each Graciano and Mazuelo from vines averaging 53 years of age. It fermented in their old oak vats and matured in used American oak barrels for three+ years. It has 13.5% alcohol, a 3.0 pH and 6.5 grams of acidity. 90,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in February 2023. (LG)" (02/2025)

92 points Vinous: "The 2017 Viña Cubillo combines 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 5% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo from Rioja Alta. This aged for three years in American oak barrels. Offering vinous aromas, gentle oak and dark fruit with herbal notes, the frost-hit vintage provided lighter fruit and greener flavors. Smooth, juicy and slightly chalky, it nonetheless retains the fine-boned elegance of the Cubillo style. (JH)" (05/2025)

K&L Notes: Bodegas R. López de Heredia is one of Spain’s most iconic and historically significant wineries, renowned for its steadfast dedication to traditional winemaking and extended aging practices. The winery is the oldest in Haro and one of the first three in the Rioja region, and they have consistent crafted extraordinary wines of place. Since its founding over 130 years ago, little has changed at López de Heredia. Unlike many Rioja producers who source grapes from a network of small growers, López de Heredia cultivates all its own fruit, sourcing exclusively from its own vineyards: Viña Tondonia, Viña Bosconia, Viña Cubillo, and Viña Gravonia. They rely exclusively on natural yeasts, avoid filtration, and continue to age their wines in wood for six to eight years—using barrels they craft themselves. A hallmark of their approach is extended aging; wines are released only when the family deems them ready, often 5–10 years post-harvest. Increasingly in demand, with wine collectors around the world seeking them out, any chance to secure López de Heredia should be taken advantage of!

Kerry Kennell | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 17, 2025

This is such a brilliant wineso fresh and alive! No doubt there is more to reveal, so this is one to buy a bottle for now and another for later. Fresh, clean, and livelythis is a generous Rioja that is the kind of wine that makes my heart skip a beat. It offers spiced plum, juicy cherries, dried rose petals, and parched earth with a subtle ferrous finish. If you want a fine red wine to drink, this is it.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 16, 2025

Dont let this wines Crianza label fool you! While most Crianza Rioja on the market is a youthful and often simple style of wine aged for a minimum of one year in barrel, the Viña Cubillo far exceeds both the legal aging requirements and the expected quality level. This wine is comprised of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 5% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo, all from 50+ year-old vines. The wine ages in used older American oak barrels for at least three years, followed by several more in bottle. Despite being a Crianza, the Cubillo surpasses the aging of most other wineries Gran Reserva wines. Compared to its siblings, however, the Cubillo is noticeably brighter and more exuberant on the nose, bursting with Bing cherry, crunchy pomegranate and plum, all swaddled in subtle American oak flavors of vanilla and tobacco. Electric acidity streaks through the core of the wine and despite the juicy initial approach, grippy tannins follow quickly on the palate. This wine sets the benchmark for entry-level Rioja.

2020 La Rioja Alta "Viña Alberdi" Reserva Rioja ($23.99)

93 points James Suckling: "A classical, typical Rioja Alta red with elegant notes of vanilla, coconut, smoked spices and strawberries. Refined and suave, with fine tannins and a long, creamy finish. Juicy and elegant. Really approachable now, but give it two more years to get more mushroom complexity. (ZS)" (08/2024)

92 points Wine Advocate: "The younger wine here is the 2020 Viña Alberdi, a versatile version of the Haro reds. It was produced with Tempranillo fermented in stainless steel and matured in American oak barrels for two years (it's sold as Reserva in international markets and Crianza in Spain). It has 14% alcohol with a pH of 3.6 and five grams of acidity. It has a classical nose of ripe fruit, American oak and spices, the subtle notes of forest floor, still young. The palate is velvety and very balanced with polished tannins. Approachable but should also age. (LG)" (02/2024)

92 points Tim Atkin: "Sold as Crianza in Spain but a Reserva elsewhere, this is a quintessential traditional style Tempranillo from Julio Sáenz and La Rioja Alta, with two years' ageing in 50% new American oak, pomegranate, dill, tobacco leaf and desiccated coconut flavours, racy acidity and sculpted tannins. Very drinkable." (06/2025)

92 points Decanter: "Classic reserva aromas of red berry fruit and generous, chocolatey oak lead to a soft and rounded palate with very well-managed tannins. It is approachable, elegant and ticks all the boxes for this style of wine at an affordable price. (BW)" (03/2025)

92 points John Gilman: "The 2020 Rioja Viña Alberdi Reserva from La Rioja Alta is made from some of their higher altitude vineyards, with the vines at least forty years of age. It is crafted entirely from tempranillo and is aged for two years in American oak barrels, with the first year of élevage spent in new casks and the second in three year-old barrels. The 2020 vintage here comes in at fourteen percent alcohol and offers up a lovely bouquet of red and black raspberries, cigar wrapper, a beautiful array of Rioja spice tones, a fine foundation of chalky soil and a lovely framing of American oak. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied, focused and complex, with a gorgeous core of fruit, excellent soil undertow, firm, well-integrated tannins and excellent length and grip on the very well balanced finish. The wine is already starting to get nicely velvety on the attack, but it has enough backend tannins to merit a brief period of hibernation in the cellar before starting to drink the wine with abandon. Fine juice. (JG) 92+" (05/2025)

91 points Wine Spectator: "Hints of tobacco, smoke and vanilla are a fragrant thread winding through the baked cherry and raspberry fruit, cocoa powder and red licorice notes on display in this lively, harmonious, focused red. Fine, crisp tannins firm the finish. *Smart Buys* (AN)" (05/2025)

K&L Notes: La Rioja Alta, originally founded in 1890, is renowned for producing traditionally-styled wines that deliver consistency and age-worthiness, vintage after vintage. This historic bodega was formed in 1890 by five winegrowers eager to explore the export potential of “modern” wines from the region. At that time, French vineyards were ravaged by phylloxera and quality was inconsistent. Rioja, separated from France by the Pyrenees, boasted a favorable climate and phylloxera-free soils. Experiments with Bordeaux-style vinification and barrique-aging proved successful and a new style of wine, based upon indigenous Tempranillo, aged in barrique, was developed. Since then, many wineries in Rioja have continued to experiment, slowly moving away aging in American oak as has been the tradition, or even no oak at all. La Rioja Alta is adamant about preserving their historic style, however, and continues to mature their wines in American oak barriques, leading to the classic savory style the region is so well known for. This is not to say that La Rioja Alta is a rustic winery, however, as they now occupy a new ultra-modern winery near Haro. All the wines produced are aged for extended periods of time in barrel and bottle; they are ready for consumption but will continue to age for many more years.

Aaron Hughes | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 21, 2025

This feels very classic Rioja, whenever I stick my nose in a glass and it smells like the inside of a barrel I feel instantly transported, like that guy with the peppermint patty, except I'm transported to a Spanish beach and there's a guy named Enrique with a platter of fresh oysters and some olives and he presents it with like this flourish that I find both impressive and annoying. Anyhow. There's a good touch of vanilla at the forefront, but underneath there's the barrel and spice, and when red and black fruits come out to play they're fairly ripe and fresh. Then there's more barrel and a little bit of cocoa and dustiness in the back. The palate is brighter than the nose might lead to believe, a great line of acidity running through it pushing the whole palate towards the finish line. The fruit on the palate is brighter and less ripe than the nose, bright cherry, blackberry, a little raspberry, something floral that's a little obscured by the barrel spice and toast on the finish, and a little bit of coffee tannin on the very finish. This is really delicious and fairly rich, especially for the price, and for anyone who likes a classic Rioja this is definitely going to be up your alley.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 06, 2025

The 2020 Viña Alberdi Reserva from La Rioja Alta is a beautiful expression of traditional Rioja, made from 100% Tempranillo sourced from high-altitude, 40-plus-year-old vineyards in the Rioja Alta sub-region. This wine follows the La Rioja Altas classic and very well-known style, featuring two years of aging in American oak barrels manufactured in-house (the first year in new oak, and the second year in older oak), which imparts signature spice, round texture, and aromas of vanilla, toasted hazelnut and subtle coconut. This is an intensely aromatic wine that remains highly approachable, with vibrant notes of cherry and wild strawberry, beautifully intertwined with the more savory and oaky flavors. Fine, polished tannins leading to a long, elegant finish that's very open and enjoyable now but promises to develop further with age. The Alberdi is the perfect introduction to the world-class Riojas of La Rioja Alta and delivers the same level of quality in a youthful, vibrant expression.

2020 Marqués de Murrieta Reserva Rioja ($27.99)

94 points James Suckling: "Harmonious, textbook Rioja that shows cedar, spiced strawberries, vanilla and plums. Really polished on the palate, with fresh acidity and a linear, lengthy finish. Very subtle extraction makes this a really balanced, harmonious Rioja thats appealing now. But the balance will help it age well for the next few years. (ZS)" (08/2024)

94 points Wine Advocate: "The 2020 Rioja Reserva, their flagship wine, comes from the 300 hectares of estate vineyards. Here, Tempranillo is the backbone, making up 82% of the blend in the low-yielding vintage of 2019, complemented with 8% Graciano, 7% Mazuelo and 3% Garnacha. It has controlled ripeness at 14% alcohol, with a pH of 3.65 and 5.1 grams of acidity. I loved the aromatics herefloral and elegant, more in the style of the 2018 than the 2019. it's lighter, more elegant, fine-boned and has a silky texture and very fine tannins. Both 2019 and 2020 are very good, but 2020 is more my style. 980,000 bottles produced. It was bottled after 21 months in American oak barrels. (LG) 94+" (02/2024)

94 points Tim Atkin: "This won't be ready to drink for some time, but it's well worth buying some now to tuck away for a few years. Sourced from the entire estate, it's a cuvée of Tempranillo with 8% Graciano, 7% Mazuelo and 3% Garnacha Tinta, that has appealing American oak sweetness and spices, a ripe, dense, textured palate of blackberry and mulberry fruit and plenty of balancing acidity." (02/2024)

93 points Penin Guide: "Colour : bright cherry, garnet rim - Aroma: red berry notes, spicy, wild herbs, complex Flavour: balanced, good acidity, fine tannins" (06/2024)

92 points Vinous: "The 2020 Marqués de Murrieta is 82% Tempranillo, 7% Mazuelo, 8% Graciano and 3% Garnacha from Rioja Alta. Aromas of cherries, dried flowers, undergrowth, plum and subtle oak define a classic profile, with a touch of vanilla adding another familiar accent. Smooth, with refined tannins and moderate freshness, it's slightly diluted due to the vintage but remains accomplished and balanced. (JH)" (05/2025)

K&L Notes: Marqués de Murrieta is one of Spain’s most historic and prestigious wineries, and certainly one of the most well-known in Rioja. Founded in 1852 by Don Luciano de Murrieta, a Peruvian immigrant who studied winemaking in Bordeaux, the estate helped to revolutionize Rioja by introducing French winemaking techniques, such as aging wines in oak barrels—a practice that helped shape the modern identity of the region. Its legendary 1852 vintage was the first fine Rioja ever exported, establishing the wine on the international stage. Located on the Ygay Estate near Logroño, Marqués de Murrieta maintains its status as part of the "Rioja aristocracy" and continues to produce elegant, long-lived wines that balanced tradition and innovation. The winery’s flagship, Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial, is often considered one of the finest expressions of Rioja’s terroir, but every wine in their stable shares the same commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Kirk Walker | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 27, 2025

When thinking about the wines and winery Marques de Murrieta I always feel that there is an overlap with Bordeaux. Now, there are many reasons for this that have absolutely nothing to do with the wine in our glasses. This estate, yes estate like in Bordeaux, was conceived of being a wine estate or a Chateaux in Bordeaux. The original owner was inspired by those wines while he was in exile in the 1840s. When he returned to Rioja, he specifically created the estate that way while all of his contemporaries were just making blends from fruit or wine from all over the region. The history of Rioja is very much intertwined with Bordeaux. Another reason, and this has nothing to do with the wine, but the export manager for the estate is the grandson of the former owner of Pichon Lalande. The last connection informs the next, the Reserva always has a feel to it that to makes me think of the best St Julien. Now this in no way tastes like Bordeaux, this is unmistakably Rioja, with its aromatics from the fruit and oak aging, not to mention the difference in structure. But there is a polish, a reserved intensity and balance to this wine. I cannot put an exact word to it, but that presence is apparent just from the nose, this smell like special Rioja. 2020 is not as concentrated of a vintage as the 2019, and that plays towards the more elegant style of Marques de Murrieta. The nose is lifted and aromatic, the core is that dark cherry fruit of Tempranillo, which is fresh and bright, but the

2015 Bodegas Ontañon Reserva Rioja ($24.99)

93 points James Suckling: "Theres a spicy overlay to the tangy white pepper, savory spices, dried plums, dried grapefruit and licorice notes. Pretty complex and well balanced, with linear savory fruit and a lengthy finish. Very firm and fine-boned tannins. (ZS)" (06/2024)

90 points Wine Spectator: "A savory red, leading with smoke and grilled herb notes before revealing flavors of plumped cherry and baked plum. Well-balanced, with supple tannins and fragrant accents of sassafras root, cocoa powder and macchia emerging on the finish. Tempranillo and Graciano. (AN)" (12/2024)

K&L Notes: Bodegas Ontañón is a historic family-owned winery in eastern Rioja, rooted in more than four generations of viticulture and winemaking tradition. The winery began with the Pérez Cuevas family’s commitment to crafting distinctive Rioja wines from vineyards planted in the high-altitude slopes of the Sierra Yerga Mountains (situated at about 2,600 feet) south of the Ebro River, near the village of Quel. Over the decades the family expanded their holdings to hundreds of hectares, making Ontañón one of the largest family vineyard owners in the region. Raquel, Ruben, Leticia and Maria Perez Cuevas make up the current generation of the Perez Cuevas family to carry on a tradition of winemaking, following their father, Gabriel, who took over in the 1970s and began making wine from the vineyards rather than selling fruit.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 25, 2026

Savory, woodsy and very delicious, this is a classic textbook example of a traditional Reserva Rioja. In recent years, theres been a growing divide between the traditionalists and the modernists in this storied region. The split often lies within the decision to participate in the aging classification of Rioja, with the appellation required a minimum amount of time in oak barrels followed by additional time in bottle (in the case of Reserva, three years total). While many wineries are choosing to abandon this system of aging, in favor of labelling as generic Rioja, just as many are steadfastly dedicated to the classic manner of aging Rioja. This isnt to say that one is better than the other rather, theres never been more choice and stylistic diversity in the region! The 2015 Ontañón Reserva Rioja is a wonderful option to explore the traditional style, at a very attractive price for a wine almost a decade old. Lovely vanilla and cocoa nib aromas surround earthy fallen leaves and dried red currant. Firmly medium-bodied, with smooth, supple tannins and bright, uplifting acidity, this wine is aged in both American and French oak barrels for two years, followed by several more in bottle, resulting in excellent balance and integration of flavors. Its also still incredibly youthful for its age, and from an excellent vintage in Rioja, is a wine to stock up on.

Matthew Landau Hassan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 18, 2026

Showing clear maturity, this Reserva opens with aromas of dried red fruit, leather, and pronounced oak influence. The palate is structured and savory, with notes of dried cherry, spice, and integrated tannins supported by firm oak presence. The texture is smooth and developed, with secondary complexity emerging alongside lingering oak and earthy undertones. A classic aged Rioja emphasizing structure, oak character, and traditional Reserva depth.

Aaron Hughes | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 17, 2026

This wine just smells old school in all the best of ways. While modern Rioja is great and has its place, there's just times you want to buy something that's a little more traditional. This has the oak, the touch of dill, and at least to me a little hint of menthol in the background. There's also a little touch of some actually inviting barnyard that feels integrated and super natural in a wine like this, just adding a little more rusticity. The fruit is dark and fairly inky and the longer I hold my nose in the glass the more it stands out and the other notes fall back a little bit. The palate is mid-plus in body, and really doesn't show all of its age it's still surprisingly fresh with pretty and slightly chewy fruit with moderate tannins and a super long and lingering finish that's a combination of stewed fruit and cigar box. This is great and for the price is such a simple answer to a common week day question: Which bottle are we going to open? What's our weekly driver? If you like Spanish wine, here you go, a great solution to your problems.

2024 Viña Zorzal Garnacha Navarra ($15.99)

93 points Decanter: "Viña Zorzal, the project founded by Antonio Sanz in 1989 and now led by second-generation Xabi and Iñaki, is synonymous with the rebirth of Navarra and its idiosyncratic Garnachas. Their very popular entry level unoaked expression is as pure as it is fresh, with transparent cherry, cranberry and pomegranate fruit under a thin veil of black and pink pepper. Subtle floral notes hover delicately. Best enjoyed slightly chilled. (IS)" (01/2026)

92 points Wine Advocate: "92+ points. The young and juicy varietal 2024 Garnacha was produced with grapes from different villagesCorella, Cintruénigo, Fitero and Lerga, that last one included since 2020from a cooler place that adds lower pH, more freshness and complexity to the blend. It was a low-yielding year but with more rain. They did a soft extraction in stainless steel using 10% full clusters and indigenous yeasts, achieving a wine with moderate alcohol (13.38%), good freshness (pH 3.39) and 5.4 grams of acidity. It's very primary and fruit-driven with tons of aromatic herbs, juicy, clean and easy to drink, very pleasant, with an extra spark of freshness. (LG)" (12/2025)

90 points Vinous: "The 2024 Garnacha Tinta Viña Zorzal is a blend from multiple villages in Navarra. The intensely fruity, expressive nose presents notes of sour cherry, raspberry and rose alongside sanguine undertones. The texture has grip, with fine, reactive tannins and a lingering reductive note that highlights the fruit. Juicy and savorythis is Garnacha made in a distinctly Navarra style." (05/2025)

K&L Notes: Brothers Xabi, Iñaki and Mikel Sanz created Viña Zorzal in 2007, taking advantage of their long history and tradition as a winemaking family in Correla, Navarra. Their family winery, Bodegas Correlana, had been run by their grandfather and father, and it had become a reference point for Navarra wines. The rocky and stony landscape in Fitero, a subzone of the D.O. Navarra, differs from the much flatter areas of Navarra where Garnacha and Tempranillo are cropped in high volumes. Viña Zorzal owns 40 hectares, 25 of which planted with the traditional Garnacha of the land. The wild bush vines are old, many centenarian, and are farmed organically.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 13, 2026

So fresh and easy to drink, this Garnacha is one of the best wines Ive had at this price point all year. Garnacha is native to neighboring Aragón, where it thrives in the warm, Mediterranean climate, and this wine shows exactly why old vine Garnacha is one of the most compelling wines to explore from Spain. Fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel, this bottle is brimming with incredibly pure red fruit aromas and flavors, followed quickly by a slightly spicy black pepper note. On the palate it feels so lightweight and effortless, with silky smooth tannins and an exuberant brightness. This is an incredibly versatile wine to have on hand for a multitude of occasions and meals. It would be perfect with charcuterie, grilled chicken, wood-fired pizza, even burgers on the grill the list goes on and on. Its also just really fun to drink on its own, possibly with a light chill to emphasize those pretty fruit and floral notes. This is a wine to buy by the case!

Matthew Landau Hassan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 18, 2026

Bright and expressive, this Garnacha opens with aromas of ripe black cherry, raspberry, and subtle mineral notes. The palate is juicy and fruit forward, with dark red fruits, soft tannins and excellent balance. A mineral undertone adds structure, while the finish remains smooth and focused. A fantastic value and an excellent introduction to the purity and drinkability Navarra Garnacha.

Aaron Hughes | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 17, 2026

Super fresh and pretty nose, really pure fruit with plum, cherry, and a combination of bramble-fruit, in the background I'm noticing rose petals coming out more and more, and I am digging it. This is super inviting, seductively whispering for me to take a sip, and it would be rude for me to decline. The palate is absolutely not a let down in the least, it's generous and plump, there's a little bit of tannin there but mostly it's just really lush and slightly creamy fruit that then slides into a little bit of a pithy and very lightly tart finish. This is just gorgeous and for this price, it's definitely a banger bottle for the bucks, this is just such a food friendly and adjustable wine I could see having this with any number of dishes and in my head I'm enjoying every single one. I think I said this before about another wine, but that doesn't make it any less true about this one. I dig it. You'll probably dig it.

2019 Señorio de Sarría "Viñedo Uno" Garnacha Crianza Navarra (Elsewhere $30) Price: Hidden

93 points James Suckling: "A scented garnacha with lots of flowers and concentrated red fruit, stones and roasted wild herbs that follow through to a medium to full body with firm but polished tannins" (03/2022)

K&L Notes: Navarra, which lies just to the north and east of Rioja, has long been overshadowed by its more well-known sibling. Much like Rioja, however, vines have been planted here since Roman times, and the region boasts a multitude of old vines and the ideal continental climate for them to thrive. While both Rioja and Navarra wines were widely exported to France during the late 1800s when the vine louse phylloxera was ravaging vineyards in Bordeaux, Navarra’s winemaking history has been closely intertwined with France since the Middle Ages, as it lies directly in the path of the “Camino Francés” – the historic pilgrims’ route that stretches from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. For centuries, pilgrims passed through the Navarra on foot. As a result, Bordeaux varieties are common in this region, co-existing with old vine Garnacha, and other French winemaking techniques, such as maturation in French oak barrels are typical. Señorío de Sarría, located on the outskirts of the town of Puente la Reina, which itself lies directly along the Camino, produces fantastic wines that are emblematic of this history. The Garnacha “Viñedo Uno” is a bold example of the variety, aged for 9 months in one-year-old French oak barrels to enhance the rich, structured style of the wine.

Matthew Landau Hassan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 18, 2026

A more structured, oak-influenced Garnacha showing aromas of black cherry, plum, and baking spice. the palate is fuller-bodied, with dark fruit, integrated oak, and firm polished tannins. Savory undertones and subtle spice carry through the long, balanced finish. A great example of Garnacha with added depth, structure, and savory complexity from oak aging.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 05, 2025

Grenache is a true chameleon of a variety sometimes ethereal and pale in the glass and sometimes bold and richly concentrated. And while I love both styles, the 2019 Viñedo Uno from Navarra is a standout for its balance of both: old vine concentration, framed by French oak, and elegant, firm structure with a polished finish. This part of Spain is not far from Aragon, where Garnacha is thought to originate from, and yet unlike most Garnacha from Aragon, the usage of French oak barrels for maturation is true to the style of Navarra. In the glass, juicy red plum and berry notes mingle with savory toasted almond, vanilla bean and cocoa nib. Made from 100% Garnacha from 60+ year old bush vines and aged for 9 months in one-year-old French oak barrels, this wine delivers the charm and vibrancy of Garnacha from old vines, but with serious composure and a long finish.

2024 Bodegas Frontonio "Microcosmico" Garnacha Valdejalon ($21.99)

93 points Wine Advocate: "The 2023 Microcósmico Garnacha was produced with grapes from older vines grown on slopes with slate soils at 650 to 700 meters in altitude in the village of Jarque in the IGP Valdejalón. It fermented with indigenous yeasts and 20% to 25% whole clusters that were foot trodden, and it matured in underground concrete vats for seven months. It has a little more complexity and depth than the Botijo Rojo and is varietal and juicy, with fine tannins and a dry finish. It has only 12.5% alcohol, a pH of 3.21 and 5.9 grams of acidity. (LG)" (11/2024)

K&L Notes: In the words of María José López de Heredia, "If there is one person in the wine world that I could recommend it is Fernando Mora, because he gives me hope for the future of the world of wine in Spain." The owner and winemaker at Bodegas Frontonio in the little-known region of Valdejalón in Aragón, Mora produces single vineyard wines from vines that are nearly a century old. The climate here is firmly Mediterranean, with significant day-to-night temperature swings and low rainfall. His preference is for north facing slopes, rich in stones, and planted to old vines. The resulting wines have remarkable purity and intensity. Mora is also a Master of Wine and wrote his research paper on the potential for a classification system in nearby Campo de Borja.

[email protected] | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 07, 2026

If you're looking for a red that will work well this Spring and Summer with dining al fresco, barbecue or just sipping on a picnic blanket, winemaker Fernando Mora has delivered this gem of nouveau Spanish style. Lively with lots of red fruit, but with a wonderful tension and food-friendly personality. This is all about terroir and the expression of pure, fresh Garnacha!

2021 Bodegas Frontonio "Telescopico" Garnacha Valdejalon ($27.99)

94 points Wine Advocate: "The 2021 Telescópico Garnacha · Garnacha Peluda · Mazuela was produced with grapes from old vines in conversion to organic farming in the villages of Alpartir and Morata on limestone and slate soils. It fermented separately, with 80% full clusters (on average, the Cariñena is destemmed and has a softer vinification) in open-top vats with indigenous yeasts and foot treading and a 40-day maceration, then matured in 500-liter barrels and 2,500- and 3,000-liter foudres for four months. It has moderate ripeness and alcohol (13.5%) coupled with very good freshness and acidity. 2021 had a longer cycle, and the grapes developed more aromas and nuances. It is elegant and floral, with more flavors, and the wine is tastier and more umami, with abundant, finer tannins. This is a more serious wine, with citrus freshness. Superb. (LG)" (05/2023)

Aaron Hughes | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 17, 2026

The nose on this is super ethereal, really light and lovely, with these hints of crunchy fruits and something floral in the background. The palate is surprisingly bright and bold for having such a reticent nose. I don't remember it being like this, perhaps it's the time it's been open, but that definitely hasn't negatively impacted the palate at all, it's great and juicy and super delicious. Much more red than black on the fruit, there's tons of cran-raspberry with a little bit of pie cherry, and a touch of pomegranate with a really long very juicy and only slightly tannin finish that just keeps going and going.

2023 Comando G "La Bruja de Rozas" Sierra de Gredos ($42.99)

95 points Wine Advocate: "The regional red 2023 La Bruja is now 100% from Cebreros, no more from Madrid; so, they produced fewer bottles, and there will be even less in 2024 (20,000 bottles). It's like a meatier, juicier version of the 2021 and is less reductive but still stony and fine-boned. It has good ripeness and development of aromas and flavors and is floral, clean, red fruited and herbal, with 14% alcohol and very good freshness and acidity, coming through as balanced and elegant. (LG)" (11/2024)

93 points James Suckling: "Grilled grapefruit, with a smoked herb touch to the ethereal red fruit and iron notes. Firm and medium-bodied with fine, chalky tannins, herbs and red berry fruit without much flesh. This is super drinkable. Enjoy now. (ZS)" (09/2024)

K&L Notes: Located just outside Madrid, the Sierra de Gredos mountains are currently experiencing a wine revolution. At the forefront of this renaissance are childhood friends Daniel Landi and Fernando Garcia. After training in enology, they founded Comando G in 2008. Their vision was clear: to elevate Garnacha by cultivating high-altitude, old-vine parcels. The vineyards, planted on granite, slate, and quartz-rich soils, benefit from a long growing season and naturally low alcohol levels. Winemaking is minimal intervention, with spontaneous fermentations and aging in neutral vessels such as concrete, large oak, and amphorae. Traditionally known for simple, inexpensive wines, the region has undergone a dramatic transformation through the rediscovery of these high-altitude Garnacha vineyards. These nearly forgotten plots produce wines of unexpected finesse, marked by pale color, vibrant red fruit, and striking minerality—more reminiscent of Burgundy Pinot Noir or northern Rhône Syrah than traditional Spanish Garnacha. Comando G's growth has been shaped by the unique character of each vineyard, with standout sites like Tumba del Rey Moro, Las Iruelas, and Rumbo al Norte quickly recognized as Grand Crus. The project now centers around four villages in DO Cebreros—Rozas, Navatalgordo, Villanueva, and El Tiemblo—each producing both village-level and site-specific wines. Regardless of tier, every bottle reflects a singular expression of Garnacha.

Kerry Kennell | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 19, 2025

The first sips of 2023 Comando G "La Bruja de Rozas" is like sinking your teeth into a fresh juicy, red-fleshed plum followed by notes of cherry hard candies, sassafras, fresh rosemary, cedar shavings, and crushed rock. Its spellbinding so proceed with caution because its easy to get lost and before you know it, youve drunk most of the bottle and turned into a newt.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 17, 2025

With a growing cultlike following, Comando G is one of the most exciting up-and-coming wine producers in Spain. Their singular focus is on Garnacha from the Sierra de Gredos region, a rugged area not far from Madrid. Long known for simple, inexpensive country wines, the region has been transformed by the rediscovery of high-altitude vineyards forgotten by most. These old Garnacha vines revealed a surprising character: pale in color yet intensely expressive, with taut, red-fruited energy and striking minerality rather than the varietys typical lush power. The La Bruja de Rozas is made from 100% Garnacha from the Rozas village and serves as an introduction to their winery. Showing classic Garnacha red fruit notes of cherry and strawberry, the wine is defined by an undercurrent of crushed black pepper, licorice and scrubby underbrush. Finely tuned tannins add balance, keeping the wild aromatics in check. The goal of founders Dani Landi and Fernando Garcia is to elevate Spanish Garnacha to the same ranks as Syrah from the Northern Rhône or Pinot Noir from Burgundy, and its clear theyre well on their way to attaining this goal. Considering that the top wines of Comando G nearly impossible to secure now fetch hundreds of dollars, this is a stunning value from one of the fastest rising stars in Spain.

2019 Terroir al Limit Terroir Históric Negre Priorat ($34.99)

93 points James Suckling: "Blood oranges, lemons, wild herbs and slate, together with a mix of red cherries and blueberries. This is an impressively fresh-toned Priorat with a touch of savoriness to the fruit. Tight, medium-to full-bodied palate with fresh, silky tannins. Drink now." (07/2022)

92 points Wine Advocate: "92+ The 2019 Terroir Históric is charming, approachable, round, open and expressive, with good ripeness and 14% alcohol, a juicy palate with a soft mouthfeel and round tannins. 25,000 bottles produced. (LG)" (09/2022)

K&L Notes: Terroir al Límit was founded in 2003 by Dominik Huber and Eben Sadie. Both fell in love with the Priorat region while working at Mas Martinet and Cims de Porrera, respectively. They later teamed up with local winemaker Jaume Sabaté, who offered guidance on where to find the best vineyard plots and how to cultivate them. The winery’s style has evolved dramatically since its early days, transitioning from a “New World” approach—harvesting late and using significant amounts of new oak—to a more subtle style. The grapes are now harvested earlier, fermented as whole clusters and a gentler “infusion” style of extraction is favored. Over time, the winery transitioned to larger oak vessels and in 2021, all wood was eliminated, instead opting for neutral materials like concrete and steel to better express the purity and character of the local terroir. Unlike the site-specific wines of Terroir al Límit, Terroir Històric is devoted to expressing the overall character of Priorat in two colors: white and red. The project, which encourages young farmers to return to family vineyards in the nine villages in and around Torroja, was launched in 2015. Històric Negre is a blend of Priorat’s traditional red varieties: Grenche Noir (75%) and Cariñena (25%), sourced from many small family-owned vineyards in the nine villages. The grapes are hand harvested, fermented as whole clusters, as aged in stainless steel tanks for six months.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 17, 2025

Priorat has been undergoing something of a renaissance in recent years. For several decades, the wines of Priorat turned up the dial regarding alcohol, extraction and oak, often including international varieties in the mix, too. As a result, the wines were often big and rich but lacking in regional character. The 2019 Terroir Històric Priorat Negre, however, is a fresh and modern take on Priorat, crafted by up-and-coming producer Terroir al Límit, a wine project founded by Dominik Huber (with early input from Eben Sadie) that seeks to revive small family-owned vineyards across Priorats nine historic villages. Unlike the Terroir al Limit single vineyard wines, the Terroir Historic wines are sourced from multiple small, family-owned plots in a quest to express the overall terroir and character of the region. This wine is a traditional blend of 75% Garnatxa Negra and 25% Carinyena, fermented in tank with partial whole clusters. The wine is then aged for six months in large, neutral concrete tanks no oak, no additional extraction allowing for a pure and mineral-driven expression. Now with 6 years of age, the wine balances ripe red and black fruit notes (pomegranate, black plum) with classic Priorat wild herbs and slate minerality on the palate. The wine is generous yet precise, following up with a hint of black pepper on the finish, and nicely integrated tannins. Despite its firm structure, the wine feels elegant and fresh, with a core of savory, earthy notes. This

Scott Beckerley | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 17, 2025

I've always been a huge Rioja fan but, Priorat is a super close second. Especially affordable priced ones! The nose of this Terroir Al Limit is a bit more traditional with bright cherry fruit (with a light chalk note), dried orange peel and savory herbs. In the mouth, there are very fresh clean tannins, tongue coating riper cherries, minerals, and a light touch of sage. While the mid-palate coats, the finish zips and tingles the palate with brightness and length. A nice representation of different styles all rolled up into one wine that has an excellent price.

John Downing | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 08, 2025

I normally expect Priorat wines to be fairly big and concentrated so I was pleasantly surprised by this juicy, elegant red. I was even more impressed to discover that this particular wine project is designed to encourage the development of local family owned vineyards as the grapes are sourced from numerous small properties throughout the zone. It's a very expressive and flavorful red that captures the essence of Priorat in a more elegant frame.

2021 Mas d'en Gil "Bellmunt" Priorat ($34.99)

93 points Wine Advocate: "The 2021 Bellmunt Negre is a village wine that showcases the freshness of the Garnacha fruit, which represents 70% of the blend this vintage, complemented with Cariñena from vines planted between 1996 and 1998. It fermented in stainless steel and matured in concrete and used 3,000-liter oak vats for 10 months. It has a bright ruby color, and the nose is all sweet Garnacha fruit, red berries and a spicy and earthy twist. It's medium to full-bodied, with very fine and elegant tannins. It comes in at 14% alcohol and with 5.5 grams of acidity. 32,000 bottles produced. (LG)" (05/2025)

2023 Rafael Cambra "Soplo" Garnacha Valencia ($14.99)

92 points Wine Advocate: "The young and fruit-driven red 2023 Soplo was produced with 80% Garnacha and the rest Monastrell and Forcallà, fermented with 30% full clusters and matured in 17,000-liter vats and 500-liter barrels for six months. It has an easy profilemedium-bodied, clean and balanced, with fine tanninsand is dominated by red fruit and some spice. Very pleasant. It has 13.5% alcohol, a pH of 3,6 and 5.1 grams of acidity. 45,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in May 2024. (LG)" (01/2025)

K&L Notes: Rafael Cambra is a small winery based in Fontanars dels Alforins in the interior of Spain’s Valencia region, run by winemaker Rafael Cambra whose philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, organic viticulture and respect for the Mediterranean terroir. He works with vineyards planted at around 2,300 feet above sea-level on clay-calcareous and sandy soils, crafting wines that reflect the warm sun, inland elevation and rugged environment of the region.

Scott Beckerley | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 15, 2026

Unlike many other affordable Garnacha's from Valencia, this one has some stuffing! It shows on the nose of boysenberry and deep black raspberry. Very pretty and extra interesting due to the additional scents of herbs and just a touch of licorice root. On the palate, it is very nicely clean with fresh (and deep!) dark red fruits. The dark red fruits are complimented by roasted meat herbs and lighter savory flavors. This wine is super versatile, and the mid-palate richness makes it work well with barbecued and grilled meats and vegetables. It is so affordable that there is no guilt involved when buying in quantity!

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 14, 2026

Rafael Cambra is a leading figure in the "new wave" of Valencian winemaking, known for his dedication to the preservation of rare indigenous grape varieties and working with a gentle hand in the winery. Growing up in a family that runs one of Spains most prestigious vine nurseries, supplying iconic estates like Vega Sicilia, Cambra brings a deep viticultural pedigree to his own project, established in 2001. His winemaking philosophy has gradually shifted from a traditional style to a more "hands-off" approach, utilizing organic farming, wild yeasts, and diverse aging vessels including egg-shaped concrete tanks, all in the quest to let the terroir speak. His 2023 Soplo Garnacha, made from 80% Garnacha, blended together with Monastrell and the rare Forcallà variety, is a vibrant, pure expression of this rugged Mediterranean region, balancing brooding bramble fruit notes with spicy, herbaceous undertones of wild fennel frond and dried oregano. Soplo translates to "breath" or "gust", and this wine is just that a fresh approach to both Garnacha and Valencian wines. Favoring a slightly darker fruit profile than most Spanish Garnachas, with tart blackberry and juicy black currant notes, it also has the gently gripping tannins that make it an excellent option for pairing with a cheese and cured meats, or even grilled meats. And at under $15, this is a no brainer to pick up by the case to have on hand for quiet nights in!

CVNE Brut Cava Penedès ($11.99)

CVNE’s foray into sparkling wine lives through Roger Goulart — a historic Catalan Cava house now part of CVNE. Founded in 1882 in Sant Esteve Sesrovires, Roger Goulart was one of Spain’s pioneers in producing sparkling wines by the traditional method. The wines are crafted from the classic Cava grape varieties (Xarel-lo, Macabeo, and Parellada), all grown in vineyards in Penedès. After the base wine is made, the second fermentation and aging happen deep underground — in a network of caves 30 meters below ground — where temperature and humidity remain constant, creating ideal conditions for slow, careful development. As a result, Roger Goulart Cavas tend to be long-aged, think fine bubbles, balanced acidity, and layers of yeast-derived richness alongside fruit, citrus or subtle brioche and pastry notes. With just a touch of sweetness on the palate, this is an easy-drinking, fun and fresh style of Cava.

Kerry Kennell | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 18, 2026

CVNE Brut Cava Penedès is composed of 40% Xarel-lo, 30% Macabeo, and 30% Parellada, aged 912 months on its lees before disgorgement and finished with a 9 g/L dosage. Its a sound choice for midweek bubbles, a quality base for sparkling cocktails, or as a festive aperitif for gatherings. In classic Brut style, it offers notes of poached pear, light honey, and flint, carried through by an easy-breezy touch of lemon squeezy finish.

Primitivo Collantes "Ceballos" Fino Chiclana de la Frontera Jerez 375ml Price: Hidden

Primitivo, known around town as Primi, is the 4th Generation of his family to be making wine in Chiclana de la Frontera. The bodega was founded in the 19th century when brothers Primitivo and Tómas Collantes moved to Chiclana de la Frontera from the Iguña Valley in Santander. A few years after arriving, they acquired a small cellar in town which still houses the company headquarters today. They grew the company over the years and acquired prime holdings in vineyards in the Chiclana area. Today they have 39 hectares of vines, all farmed organicially. The "Ceballos" Fino is 100% estate-grown Palominio Fino, all from the Pozo Galvan vineyard. The wine is fortiffied to 15% and aged for three years under the traditional flor.

2023 Vinos del Viento Garnacha Blanca Campo de Borja (Previously $18) Price: Hidden

Vinos del Viento is our most recent addition to our Direct import portfolio from Spain. It is a project that focuses on Garnacha and Cariñena (Grenache and Carignan) from the region that is the origin for both varieties, Aragon. All of the DO’s of Aragon are represented in the portfolio; Campo de Borja, Calatayud, Carinena and Somontano. Winemaker Michael Cooper, who is a native to California, looks for purity and freshness in his wine. To do so he has sought our older vineyards that are found at higher elevations. The youngest vines are 35 years old and the oldest are 99 and the lowest elevation in 1800 feet. These are wines for everyday, and priced accordingly. They are not simple wines, they are delicious and if you are looking for no more than that these wines are hard to beat. If you want more the wines speak of the varietals, and regions with some depth and complexity. Named after the winds that temper the region’s warm climate these wines are a bridge from the old world to the new, perfectly representing a Californian making Spanish wines. Luis Gutierrez writes: "Vinos del Viento is the project of winemaker Michael Cooper and his wife. They produce wines in different appellations of Aragón, Campo de Borja, Cariñena, Calatayud and Somontano, often with local grape varieties. They started in 2013 and produce 25,000 bottles." (05/2023)

2023 Adegas Valtea Albariño Rias Baixas ($17.99)

This the ninth vintage of Adegas Valtea we have directly imported from the winery, and it continues to be a K&L customer favorite! Adegas Valtea is located in the Condado do Tea sub-region, which is the warmest and most inland part of Rias Baixas. About equidistant between the towns of Vigo and Ourense, and not far north of the Miño River, Valtea benefits from a unique microclimate that helps Albariño grapes fully ripen – the nights are very cool, but the days are warm, allowing the grapes to develop intense aromatic concentration. The vineyards are planted on extensive terraced slopes overlooking the Miño River and facing Portugal, with a north–south orientation and gently irregular terrain. Weightier than a typical coastal Albariño, this wine is excellent with any shellfish, especially Dungeness crab!

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 14, 2025

This is a serious, concentrated style of Albarino, bursting with classic aromas of juicy white peach, golden apple and faintly perfumed orange blossom. A green savory note on the palate think freshly cut chervil or tarragon and a subtle grippy feel on the palate add complexity. The wine is very fresh and lively on the palate, resulting from a short elevage in stainless steel tank, never barrel or cask. Located in the warmest, most inland part of Rias Baixas, where the days are warm, but the nights are cool, the Valtea balances weight and concentration with fanstic structure and a clean, refreshing finish. This wine is a great choice to pair with soft cheeses or chilled shellfish.

John Downing | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 16, 2024

Thanks to the slightly warmer location of the vines, the Valtea Albarino offers a bit more texture yet maintains ample acidity. Delicious ripe lemon fruit with a touch of salinity make this especially ideal with shellfish, fish, white meats and vegetable dishes.

2019 Bodegas Casa Juan "Señor de Lesmos" Crianza Rioja ($12.99)

Located within the beautiful, walled Rioja Alavesa village of Laguardia, Bodegas Casa Juan Señor de Lesmos offers up a terrific range of Riojas that are honest, detailed and soulful expressions of both the region and their terroir. Angel Escudero, along with his siblings (CArmen, SAntiago, JUlio and ANgel = Casa Juan) own their simple yet functional bodega, along with slightly under 30 hectares of vineyards they help to farm primarily themselves (no herbicides, no pesticides, just copper sulphate and sulphur utilized only as needed). The wines typically contain mostly Tempranillo, with up to 15% Mazuelo. While the vineyards are mature, some up to 100 years old, and farmed with great care, where Angel really lights up is in the cellar. Primary fermentation occurs always with indigenous yeasts in concrete tanks, where the wines are eventually racked to barrels, which are used up to 7 years and consist primarily of American oak. Prior to bottling, Angel is careful to let wine from various barrels come together in tank after blending, and before he sells the wine he always prefers to age it in bottle until he thinks it is starting to drink to his liking. These wines are articulate and worthy of contemplation, but also gregarious and lots of fun, like the man who makes them.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 22, 2025

Possibly one of the most consistent and delicious wines we offer from Spain under $15, the 2019 Bodegas Casa Juan Señor de Lesmos Crianza Rioja delivers a lot of character and earth-driven complexity for a very modest price. This wine is a blend of 85% Tempranillo and 15% Mazuelo (Carignan), all sourced from old en vaso (head trained) vines, with an average age of forty-five years. The vineyards are farmed organically, and the grapes are hand-harvested. Fermentation takes place in 24,000L concrete tanks, with daily pumpovers to introduce oxygen and preserve aromatics. The wine is then matured in a combination of older French and American oak barrels. Now with over five years of total maturation in barrel and bottle, this wine shows still youthful cranberry and dried cherry notes up front, followed quickly by more savory mushroom, tea leaf and dried oregano. The palate is so classically Old World, with firm but well-integrated tannins and a persistent core of acidity to hold everything together. Unlike Reserva and Gran Reserva styles where the oak often peeks through or even dominates the palate, the focus for this Crianza is pure, red fruit framed by the earthy Rioja terroir. This is simply a tremendous weeknight wine that would pair well with many different foods pizza, tomato-based pasta sauces, burgers, or even just a charcuterie board. Considering that most wine at this price point has some mechanized production, either in the vineyard or winery, this is an unbea

John Downing | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 16, 2024

It's difficult not to be excited by the arrival of this perennial favorite. In fact, this is one of the finest vintages of this Crianza to-date. It delivers lots of warm black and red fruits in a well-balanced, medium-textured frame. The oak takes a back seat as the wine ages in used barrels which makes it all about the fruit. It's tough to buy only one bottle considering the price.

Kirk Walker | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 30, 2024

There is so much going on with this wine. The easiest way to entice anyone with this wine is the value. You will be hard pressed to find a wine with this much character for this price anywhere else in the store. For some that is enough, but not for me. This is sourced from small parcels of organically farmed, head trained vines that are grown around the medieval village of Laguardia. This is in the Sonsierra of Rioja, the region that is located to the North of the Ebro River approaching the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The wine is 85% Tempranillo and 15% Manzuelo (Carignan). The fruit is hand harvested and fermented with native yeasts in large concrete vats. After fermentation the wine is aged in a mixture of old barrels, both French and American oak. The purity of the 2019 vintage is on display with this wine. Those classic dark fruit notes are present, backed with muted herbal and spice tones. The oak is present but would not not call this an oaky wine. The palate is medium bodied, polished, and fresh. This vintage has a surprising suppleness to it. The fruit is brighter than the nose on the palate and has more variety to it. There is a little more spice on the palate and a little less herbal tone. The tannins are present and polished. The finish has a slight savory quality to it as well as a faint minerality to it which is classic to the region. I cannot wait to see what this wine becomes, yes this is a wine for your cellar (if you have the room and patience, I have h

2024 Bodegas Torremoron Ribera del Duero ($17.99)

Bodegas Torremorón is located in Ribera del Duero, in the tiny hamlet of Quintanamanvirgo, a village of fewer than 100 residents where little has changed over time. The name Torremorón refers to the ancient underground cellars carved deep into the limestone beneath the town, used for centuries to store and age local wine. Founded in 1957 by a group of growers, the winery remains the center of village life today: about 85 residents work at the bodega, while the rest run the bar across the square. The vineyards surrounding Quintanamanvirgo form the backbone of Torremorón. Planted between 1914 and 1934, these bush-trained Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) vines produce small, concentrated berries that offer both depth and complexity. The site sits at almost 3000 feet above sea level in a high-desert climate known for dramatic diurnal temperature shifts, a key factor in preserving acidity, aromatics, and structure. Torremorón’s philosophy is simple: let the raw material speak. The combination of high elevation, limestone soils, and strong day–night temperature swings preserves freshness and clarity. Vinification is carried out entirely in stainless steel to maintain purity and avoid oak influence. Torremorón is crafted with a clear purpose—to showcase the unadorned purity of old-vine Tempranillo, without oak or stylistic embellishment.

2023 Bodegas Lleiroso "Luz Millar" Ribera del Duero Roble Price: Hidden

90 points Wine Enthusiast: "This wine has a nose of pomegranate, cranberry, clementine and lemon thyme. A note of rose petal underlies flavors of cherry pie, anisette and orange zest that are set into a bed of wooly tannins that stick around for a while. *Wine Enthusiast Best Buy* (MD)" (10/2024)

2023 Vinos del Viento "Aventura" Campo de Borja (Previously $15) Price: Hidden

Vinos del Viento is our most recent addition to our Direct import portfolio from Spain. It is a project that focuses on Garnacha and Cariñena (Grenache and Carignan) from the region that is the origin for both varieties, Aragon. All of the DO’s of Aragon are represented in the portfolio; Campo de Borja, Calatayud, Cariñena and Somontano. Winemaker Michael Cooper, who is a native to California, looks for purity and freshness in his wine. To do so he has sought out older vineyards that are found at higher elevations. The youngest vines are 35 years old and the oldest are 99 and the lowest elevation in 1800 feet. Aventura is a departure for Michael in that he was given an opportunity to work with vineyards in Manchuela, more than a decent drive from his home stomping ground in Zaragoza. He could not pass up the old, dry farmed, bush vines. Since the wine is not made within the region, it carries the basic Spain appellation. But what is it? It is a blend of Garnacha, Graciano, Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) and Syrah. This is a more Northern Rhône-inspired blend, darker and more savory than the rest of his lineup. It is the latter three varietals that bring this. The savory, earthy, spiciness from the Syrah and Garnacha Tintorara with an herbal lift from the Graciano. They are all intensely colored and bring a dark berry fruit to the mix. The Garnacha softens and brightens the blend. All of that and it is a deal to boot!

John Downing | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 08, 2025

This was a pleasant surprise as I was not expecting such depth of fruit at such a modest price. It's a delicious red fermented in concrete that offers fruit-driven aromas of black cherry, plum and blueberry and a fresh and satisfying palate with good length. An outstanding value that's irresistible.

Rachael Ryan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 29, 2025

This is a killer deal for the price! Made from a somewhat unlikely blend of Garnacha, Syrah, Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon, all fermented in concrete, this is a light-to-medium-bodied wine that is juicy, approachable, and bursting with wild raspberry, iris and violet. A spicy black peppercorn note follows quickly on the heels of all those pretty floral and berry aromatics. Almost reminiscent of a Beaujolais Village in structure and feel, a bright and refreshing acidity backs up the palate. This should be a serious contender for your new favorite house wine, as its so friendly and exuberant on its own, though a little bit of charcuterie would be fantastic alongside, too.

2020 Bodegas Sierra Salinas "Mira Salinas" Monastrell Alicante ($14.99)

93 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Coming from limestone soils and all Monastrell, raised in new, second, third, and fourth-use French oak barriques, the 2020 Mira Salinas Monastrell sports a vivid purple hue and offers remarkable purity in its crème de cassis, crushed violets, spice box, crushed stone, and graphite nuances. It's concentrated, medium to full-bodied, has remarkable purity, and ripe tannins." (07/2024)

91 points James Suckling: "Red cherries, red plums and rose hips on the nose, with a hint of olives. Its medium- to full-bodied, fruity and supple, with a salty twist to the red fruit. Soft tannins. (ZS)" (07/2024)

91 points Vinous: "The 2020 Monastrell Mira Salinas is sourced from Alicante. Aged for one year in oak barrels, this purple wine offers aromas of thyme, bay, violet and plum. Dry and rich, the palate features a slightly uplifted acidity that invigorates the wine. Complex, with a solar core, this is an intense and captivating red. (JH)" (04/2024)

2024 Vera de Estenas Bobal Utiel-Requena ($14.99)

Founded in 1945 by Francisco Martinez Bermell, Vera de Estenas has been crafting wines from their 47 hectares of estate fruit since their inception. Situated at 800m elevation near the mouth of the Estenas river near the foot of the Sierra del Remedio mountains, their en vaso trained vineyards run northwest to southeast along a broad swath of calcareous clay soils. Summer brings scorching heat, but a cooling wind called the Solano brings relief, and nighttime temperatures can drop substantially due to the high elevation, helping to preserve acidity in the grapes. Under the current leadership of Felix Martinez, Vera de Estenas is producing some of the region’s most compelling wines from Bobal vines as old as 100 years.