Campo Viejo Rioja Gran Reserva 2017

Campo Viejo Rioja Gran Reserva is a blend of 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo, aged 24 months in French and American oak before a further 36 months resting in bottle - the kind of patient, traditional Rioja ageing that Gran Reserva status demands. Ripe blackberry, blueberry and plum lead the nose, gradually opening to smoky, toasted wood, spice, mineral and tobacco notes. The palate is smooth and velvety, with soft, polished tannins and real balance, closing on an elegant, layered finish of coffee, dark chocolate and more dark fruit. A serious, old-school Rioja built for slow-cooked lamb, mature cheese or a long dinner table.

What the winery says:
A reassuringly balanced Rioja crafted over five years. On the nose: blackberries, blueberries and plums alongside smoky, toasted wood, spices, minerals and tobacco. The palate is smooth, with soft, velvety tannins, great weight and extraordinary balance, finishing with an elegant, complex aftertaste of coffee, chocolate, tobacco and dark fruit. Best alongside red meat, grills, roasts, game, or mature and blue cheeses.

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, 92/100 (2017 Vintage)
"Notes of ripe berries, sweet spices and cocoa with some earthy character to it. Medium- to full-bodied with polished tannins and a sleek texture. Firm and stalky with notes of cedar and walnut to it."

Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast, 92/100 (2017 Vintage)
"A Rioja red blend showing deep garnet in the glass, with layered aromas and flavors with polish and integration. Fresh tobacco, mixed berries and sour plum, spiced coffee grounds offer depth while a waft of fresh herbs and silken tannins provide lift and length. Approachable and refined. A go-to choice."