A classic Rioja, comprised of 90% Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazuelo field blend with 10% Viura and Malvasia to add a dash of elegance to the otherwise brooding and assertive character of the region. Winemaker Diego Magaña works his 70–90-year-old parcels entirely by horse. While many Riojas see plenty of new oak, with some producers even opting for robust American oak, Diego prefers the expression offered by neutral French barrels, which allow plenty of room for the wines to authentically represent a sense of place even in their youth. ‘Especial’ is the estate’s top cuvée, produced from the oldest parcels with 75- to 90-year-old vines in pure limestone. Only 200 cases were produced. 97 points, The Wine Advocate.