Altos de la Guardia Tempranillo Rioja 2021

Rioja is Spain’s premier wine region—and this special release hails from top boutique Altos de Rioja.

Founded by Château Haut Brion-trained winemaker Jean-Marc Sauboua, and led today by head winemaker Amaia Amestoy (inset), Altos is known for its quality-driven approach (and has won literally hundreds of awards to prove it). For the juicy-smooth 2021 release, Jean-Marc and Amaia’s team carefully hand picked Tempranillo grapes from 60- to 80-year-old vines growing high in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria mountains. On these high-altitude slopes, Tempranillo enjoys ideal sun exposure and cool temperatures, factors that contribute extra aromatic and flavor intensity.

Back at the winery, Amaia treated the wine to a brief slumber in oak for a touch of toasty spice character. From vineyard to cellar, the team’s high standards have paid off big. A previous release scooped gold from the Concours des Vins Lyon and earned a coveted Top 100 ranking at the Wines From Spain Awards. And the 2021 release arrives with multiple medals from top competitions.

Look forward to ripe, rich blackberry and strawberry flavors, plus notes of smooth vanilla spice. It’s also very versatile come dinner time. We love this Rioja with lamb, but its silky texture and easy-drinking appeal make it a great match for pork, beef, meaty fish and more.

This fine Rioja is always a hit with our customers, so you’ll have to be quick to secure your share.