The Rioja Discovery Twelve Bottle Collection
The Rioja region has experienced a renaissance in recent years, revealing a rich diversity that stretches from the rediscovery of ancient grape varieties to the creation of pioneering single-varietal and single vineyard wines. While the larger producers focus on the mass market, it's the passionate artisanal winemakers who are making waves with their small-batch, characterful wines. Our restaurant clients particularly appreciate the individuality and personality of these wines, which stand out for their quality, distinctive flavour and suitability for pairing with a wide range of dishes.
This curated case, personally selected by Tim, features some of the most exciting Rioja wines available today. From fresh, aromatic whites to elegant rosés and robust reds, these wines beautifully reflect the dynamism and innovation of this extraordinary region. Each bottle tells a story of dedication and offers you a taste of Rioja’s evolving identity.
Blanco
1 x Real Agrado Rioja Blanco 2023, Rioja Oriental DOCa
"Clean and bright with a straw-yellow hue, this white Rioja offers fresh tropical fruit, peach skin, and light herbal aromas. The palate is crisp and refreshing, with subtle citrus and a persistent finish."
Key fact: Made from estate-grown Viura grapes from Rioja Oriental, reflecting the unique terroir of this Mediterranean-influenced region.
Food pairing: seabass, grilled vegetables, light salads.
1 x Clipeo Rioja Tempranillo Blanco 2019, Rioja Alta DOCa
"Bright straw-yellow in colour, this rare white Tempranillo presents pineapple, apple, and floral aromas. It is fresh yet voluminous, with balanced natural acidity and a vibrant finish."
Key fact: Sourced from Rioja Alta in restricted quantities, this wine showcases the innovation of white Tempranillo, a new variety only recognised in Rioja DOCa wines since 2007.
Food pairing: grilled prawns, tuna tartare, goat cheese.
1 x Clipeo Rioja Blanco Maturana 2019, Rioja Alta DOCa
"This soft golden-yellow wine has complex aromas of fennel, herbs, and biscuit, complemented by well-integrated oak. The palate is fresh and glyceric with a robust phenolic structure and long persistence."
Key fact: Maturana Blanca, an ancient grape, is revitalised in this single-vineyard wine, offering a unique taste of Rioja Alta’s heritage.
Food pairing: lobster, creamy pasta dishes, roasted chicken.
1 x Real Agrado Rioja Blanco Viura 'Las Planas' Gran Reserva 2016, Rioja Oriental DOCa
"A sophisticated Gran Reserva with aromas of almonds, oak, and a hint of petrol. On the palate, vibrant notes of green apple, citrus, and bitter herbs lead to a long, slow and refreshing finish." 97 points and Platinum winner, Decanter
Key fact: Total production of this Gran Reserva from the acclaimed Las Planas vineyard is limited to 2,298 bottles
Food pairing: Dover sole, grilled white fish, aged cheeses.
Rosado
1 x Real Agrado Rioja Rosado 2023, Rioja Oriental DOCa
"Delicate light pink in colour, this rosé presents aromas of strawberries, watermelon, and floral hints like orange blossom. The palate is fresh and crisp with vibrant acidity and a fruity finish."
Key fact: This rosé is made from Garnacha and Viura, capturing the Mediterranean climate of Rioja Oriental in a fresh, light expression.
Food pairing: shellfish, salads, summer dishes, lightly spiced foods.
Rojo
1 x Real Agrado Rioja VA! Tempranillo 2022, Rioja Oriental DOCa
"This modern, fruit-forward Rioja has a vibrant purple-red hue and intense aromas of blackberries, raspberries, and liquorice. On the palate, it is full-flavoured and fresh, with minimal oak influence."
Key fact: VA! is vinified with minimal oak to focus on primary fruit flavours, offering a modern, approachable take on Tempranillo from Rioja Oriental.
Food pairing: grilled meats, tapas, cured ham.
1 x Real Agrado Rioja Tinto 2019, Rioja Oriental DOCa
Bright cherry-red in colour, this wine offers aromas of jammy red berries, blackberries, and light peppery notes. The medium-bodied palate shows lively fruit with a subtle touch of oak."
Key fact: Aged in a mix of French and American oak barrels, this wine balances fresh fruit with oak complexity, sourced from estate vineyards.
Food pairing: lamb, charcuterie, roasted vegetables.
1 x Alcaudon Crianza 2020, Rioja Alta DOCa
"This Crianza shows a deep cherry-red colour with ruby tones. Aromas of tobacco and red fruit are supported by silky tannins and balanced acidity, creating a round, approachable wine."
Key fact: Aged for 12 months in oak from high-altitude vineyards, this Crianza reflects the classic style of Rioja Alta.
Food pairing: roasted meats, grilled lamb, hard cheeses.
1 x Real Agrado Reserva 2017, Rioja Oriental DOCa
"Ruby red with garnet hues, this Reserva reveals aromas of ripe red berries, vanilla, and chocolate. The palate is structured and velvety, with balsamic and mineral notes and a long finish."
Key fact: Aged for 24 months in oak barrels, this wine offers the complexity typical of Rioja’s finest Reservas.
Food pairing: grilled steak, braised beef, mature cheeses.
1 x Clipeo Rioja Garnacha 2019, Rioja Alta DOCa
"High-intensity red with bluish hues, this Garnacha offers ripe red berries, raspberry, and caramel notes. The structured, complex palate is balanced by silky tannins and a long finish."
Key fact: Made from old-vine Garnacha, this single-vineyard wine captures the intensity and elegance of Rioja Alta’s terroir.
Food pairing: duck, pork belly, roasted game.
1 x Real Agrado Rioja Garnacha 'Canterabuey' 2017, Rioja Oriental DOCa
"Intense garnet in colour, this wine offers ripe black fruit aromas with elegant notes from barrel ageing. Powerful and structured, the palate is perfectly balanced between fruit and oak."
Key fact: Sourced from the Canterabuey vineyard, the first to be certified in Rioja as a Viñedo Singular, with production limited to 11,300 bottles.
Food pairing: ribeye steak, grilled lamb chops, wild boar.
1 x Arizcuren Solo Mazuelo 2015, Rioja Oriental DOCa
"Rich and elegant with aromas of black fruit, spices, and herbs, this Mazuelo is concentrated with dark cherry and savoury herbs. The well-integrated tannins create a velvety, smooth texture."
Key fact: Made from 100% Mazuelo, this single-varietal Rioja reflects the unique characteristics of this often-overlooked grape.
Food pairing: game, rich stews, aged cheeses.
