100% sensational Rioja that's booted every other contender out of the park in the numerous blind tastings we've had these last few months. It's easy to get good Rioja but it's very difficult to get great Rioja at this price. Forget Crianza, Reserva etc. etc, this Zaco is made from perfect fruit aged for nine months in new French and American oak. It's a pure expression of tempranillo grown where it's grown best and is so soft, spicy and delicious it should come with a health warning!

What they say:

"The 2010 Zaco is a pure Tempranillo from 10- to 20-year-old vines aged equally in American and French oak. It has a simple, clean and “fun” bouquet of small dark cherries and a touch of blueberry jam. The palate is well-balanced with rounded tannins, good acidity and a clean, smooth, satisfying finish." Neil Martin, Wine advocate

"This red shows focus and good density, with ripe fruit flavours of black cherry and plum accented with toast and coffee, all supported by well-integrated tannins. Leafy and minerally accents linger on the finish. Drink now through 2016." 90 Points, Wine Spectator (February 2013)

Wine info:

Vintage: 2010

Closure: Cork

Grape: Tempranillo

Country: Spain

Region: Rioja

ABV: 14.0%