Remelluri, Lindes de Remelluri, Vinedos de Labastida, Rioja, Spain

Remelluri is one of Rioja's iconic producers. Now run by Telmo Rodriguez, Rioja's greatest ambassador and one of Spain's greatest winemakers, the bodega's vineyards all lie together in one space in Rioja Alavesa, tucked up against the Sierra Cantabria. Traditionally they also bought grapes from two neighbouring villages, Labastida and San Vicente, and these were used in the main blend but now these grapes are made into separate blends.

This wine is made from grapes grown around Labastida which is the higher of the two villages and the resulting wine is slightly lower in alcohol but beautifully balanced and packed with flavour and, happily, not dominated by oak.

Expressive nose with aromas of ripe red fruits, liquorice, vanilla and coconut. It has velvety tannins, the acidity is well-balanced by the flavour concentration and the finish is persistent.

A true classic, all killer, no filler.