Sustainably farmed Tempranillo and Garnacha, fermented in fiberglass and aged for 21 months in old American oak, followed by 12 months in bottle. Much longer aging than required by the DO gives way to a gorgeously textured, fruit-forward cuvée. One of the best quality to price Riojas we’ve ever had.

Founded in 1975 by Juan Penagaricano, Bodegas Akutain focuses on small-batch wines made in a traditional style that highlights the high-elevation growing sites of Rioja Alta. Fruit for Akutain’s Crianza ferments in fiberglass with native yeasts, followed by 33 months of aging in used American oak and bottle. The wine’s juicy and dark-fruited palate is noted with sweet baking spice undertones. A solid Rioja for an incredible price!