Bodegas Exopto La Mimbrera Graciano 2020

Bodegas Exopto La Mimbrera Graciano is a single-variety Graciano from the first vineyard Tom Puyaubert planted in Ábalos.

Graciano accounts for barely two per cent of plantings in Rioja, usually appearing as a seasoning in blends, and Puyaubert has long argued that it deserves better in the Atlantic-influenced terroirs of Rioja Alta. This small parcel sits within the older La Mimbrera vineyard in Ábalos, planted at 5,000 vines per hectare, and it carries some sentimental weight as the first vineyard he put in the ground there. The variety ripens late and holds high natural acidity, which suits the cooler, limestone-rich ground under the Sierra Cantabria. The fruit is destemmed and fermented naturally in old oak, with two weeks on skins, then aged eighteen months in the same 600-litre barrel. There is no new wood involved, so the tannin structure comes from the grape rather than the cask.

Give it a good decant if drinking young; it will run for a decade. Match with braised beef, venison or hard sheep's cheese at 16-18°C.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.