ESF

9.1

Better than 2018 - very generous showing how complex and complete a varietal Monastrell can be, lovely nose & palate - balanced w/impressive length on finish. Bump for QPR — 15 days ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Valserrano – Tempranillo & Graciano – 2020
Rioja Alavesa DOCa – Spain 🇪🇸

Overview
A Crianza-level Rioja built for approachability, freshness, and everyday enjoyment. Predominantly Tempranillo with a touch of Graciano, aged briefly in oak to soften the edges while preserving fruit purity.

Aromas & Flavors
Red cherry, raspberry, and plum with hints of licorice, vanilla, and subtle spice. Light herbal notes and soft oak support without dominating.

Mouthfeel
Medium-light body, juicy and vibrant with mild tannins and easy-going acidity. Friendly texture that drinks effortlessly, even slightly chilled.

Food Pairings
Tapas, grilled chicken, burgers, pizza, or chorizo, anything casual and flavorful.

Verdict
An easy-drinking, fruit-forward Rioja that embraces the modern, relaxed side of Rioja Alavesa. Fun, refreshing, and crowd-pleasing without trying too hard.

Did You Know?
Crianza wines are Spain’s most versatile category, requiring a minimum of 2 years of aging with at least 1 year in oak, striking the sweet spot between young fruit and gentle structure. — 5 days ago

Rudi Sanchez-Colberg

10

Show stopper. 59 years old and still providing an amazing experience. Never faded during our tasting. Elegant nose and complex mouth with a long, lingering finish. — 25 days ago

Anne Richardson

9.1

Mmmm - delicious! Quite full bodied with a deep ruby red color. Enjoyed with red meat and all by itself. Flavors of blackberry, plum and dark cherry. — 8 days ago

Peter Krug

9.3

rich and not as dry as it first seems. delicious with Saag Paneer. complex yet subtle at the same time. — 21 days ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Valserrano – Tempranillo & Graciano – 2019
Rioja DOCa – Rioja Alavesa, Spain 🇪🇸

Overview
A classic Rioja Reserva blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano, aged in oak. The 2019 vintage leans slightly riper and more concentrated than 2018, offering darker fruit and a touch more structure without sacrificing Valserrano’s signature elegance.

Aromas & Flavors
Black cherry, plum, and blackberry compote layered with vanilla, cocoa, sweet tobacco, and a hint of dried herbs. Subtle licorice and baking spice linger on the finish.

Mouthfeel
Medium-plus body with polished tannins and more grip than the 2018. Balanced acidity keeps the wine fresh, while the finish is smooth, long, and quietly complex.

Food Pairings
Lamb chops, Iberian pork, roasted mushrooms, aged Manchego, or paella with chorizo.

Verdict
A refined yet slightly richer expression of Valserrano Reserva. Dark fruit, subtle earth, and graceful spice come together with impressive balance and drinkability. Classic Rioja with modern finesse.

Did You Know?
The Valserrano estate, founded in 1880, is still family-run and among the pioneers of Rioja Alavesa. Higher elevation and limestone soils are key to the region’s lifted acidity and refined tannin profile. — 5 days ago

Bobbi Jo Broxson

9.2

One of our favorite Spanish — 15 days ago

with Tammy, Emmett and 3 others

Bernat Jaume

9.0

Va mejorando a medida que se oxigena. Bastante bien. — 4 days ago

with Ana

Christopher J. Simovich

9.8

This was perfect right from the bottle to a 20 minute decant. I felt like an angel baby swatted in cotton candy after drinking this one. Paired with meats and dishes at Bazaar in Washington DC. — 20 days ago

Rudi Sanchez-Colberg

9.8

Pure power. Extra long finish. One of the best Unicos I’ve tasted. — 25 days ago