Finca La Emperatriz El Jardín de La Emperatriz Rioja Crianza 2019, 0,75 L

For us, this wine is the perfect introduction to the world of Rioja. It embodies why Rioja represents one of the most renowned wine regions globally, offering exceptional quality at an accessible price. Few regions match the value this wine delivers.

The bottle itself is impressive, enticing you to open it immediately.

While still youthful, it's already beginning to show its drinking potential, boasting enticing fruit flavours on the nose. Notes of lavender, blueberries, wild berries, and subtle roasted nuances create a complex bouquet, enhanced by hints of leather, coconut, and vanilla from barrel ageing.

The complexity unfolds on the palate as well. The 2019 vintage offers a mouthful of wine, rich in flavour yet wonderfully elegant and refreshingly cool. It features juicy tannins, excellent structure, and a long, balsamic finish.

This Rioja is an outstanding example of elegance and value, punching well above its price point. It's no wonder the winery consistently garners high scores—it's well-deserved.