La Rioja Alta Finca San Martin Crianza

A classic Rioja with the unmistakable style of the house: ripe fruit, subtle wood, velvety texture — and all at a price that requires no lengthy deliberation.

La Rioja Alta is one of the region's most traditional wineries. Founded in 1890, the estate continues to rely on long barrel aging and patient vinification—in an era when many Rioja producers are shifting towards rapid marketing. The Finca San Martín Crianza is made from Tempranillo grapes and matures for at least 12 months in barriques, followed by several more months in the bottle.

The nose offers blackberry, dark cherry, and raspberry, underpinned by cloves, a hint of cinnamon, and a touch of mocha. On the palate, it is fleshy, with smoky spice and a velvety texture. The finish is long, slightly balsamic, with well-integrated tannins.

Serving temperature: 16–18 °C. Drinking window: now until 2028.
Goes well with:

• Leg of lamb with rosemary
• Chorizo ​​and aged Manchego cheese
• Braised beef brisket or entrecôte