A lively, easy-drinking, great-value Rioja and the introduction to the Exopto range. It is a pan-regional blend of Rioja's three principal grape varieties. Most entry-level Rioja is built on Tempranillo, which is easier and more profitable to grow, but here Garnacha leads the blend at 65%. The Garnacha comes from very old vines in the sandy, river-stone terroirs of El Agudo and Al Casillón at Alfaro (Rioja Oriental). The Tempranillo is drawn from a selection of mature vines in Ábalos (high-country Rioja Alta), and some Ábalos Graciano adds freshness and finesse.
The wine ferments in a combination of concrete and steel tank, then ages for six months in concrete and 5,000-litre oak vats. Winemaker Tom includes a measure of semi-carbonic maceration for extra buoyancy. It is aromatic and restaurant-friendly, and impresses with precision rather than power.