Altos de Rioja Altos R Pigeage 2016 (750ML)

94 JS / 94 TC / 91 DE

A deep expression of very neatly captured, ripe red cherries and dark berries, backed in by judicious oak treatment and a crushed flower perfume. The palate has such centrally focused fruit-presence and delivers a long, juicy and fully formed finish. Drink or hold. - James Suckling

Made like a Cru Classe according to Jean-Marc, old vine Tempranillo is over 80 years old, the wine aged 15 months in French oak. Beautiful nose, with Sandalwood and cedar over plush black fruit, masses of ripeness and creaminess, violet and delicious fudge-like notes. The palate carries on that theme, mouth-filling and substantial, yet great juiciness, the lemony juiciness of the acidity cutting through the fruit density, oak and tannins of the finish.-Tom Cannavan, Wine Pages

Laden with sweet ripe cherries, raspberries and bold spice notes; full and structured with a delectable acidity and fine tannins.-Decanter

Laithwaites' head winemaker Jean-Marc Sauboua owns this winery with Amaia Amestoy and Hector Gomez. 80-year-old Tempranillo vines, aged for 15 months in 80% new and 20% used French oak. Unfiltered.