Bodegas Exopto Rioja Bozeto de Exopto 2021

Bozeto means sketch, and this is Tom Puyaubert's entry-level Rioja, unusual in being led by Garnacha rather than Tempranillo.

Rioja is generally built on Tempranillo, which is both easier and more profitable to grow, so a wine with 60% Grenache in the blend is a deliberate statement. Bodegas Exopto is Puyaubert's project and this cuvée is designed as a pan-regional introduction to the range, taking in all three of the region's principal red grapes from three different places. The Grenache comes from El Agudo, a 60-year-old plot at Alfaro on Monte Yerga in Rioja Oriental, on sandy soils full of river stone. The Tempranillo is a selection of mature vines at Ábalos in high-country Rioja Alta, and there is Graciano from Ábalos as well, which brings freshness and finesse. Fermentation takes place in a combination of concrete and steel, with a measure of semi-carbonic maceration for buoyancy, and the wine then ages for six months in concrete and 5,000-litre oak vats.

Lively and easy to drink now and over the next three years, with grilled lamb cutlets, chorizo or a tomato-based pasta. Serve at 16°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.