5 great-value Riojas under 300 RMB

In Rioja, all but a handful of the DOCa’s finest wines are comparatively inexpensive. You don’t need to spend much more to trade up from something that’s simple, fruity and oaky to something that is complex, balanced and age-worthy, said Decanter expert Tim Atkin MW.
Try five of the great-quality Rioja wines under 300 RMB this weekend. All are available on Chinese online wine shops.

Wines

Torres, Altos Ibéricos, Crianza, Rioja, Spain 2012 Torres, Altos Ibéricos, Crianza, Rioja, Spain 2012

Torres, Altos Ibéricos, Crianza, Rioja, Spain 2012

86

Recommended

Textbook generous Rioja: full round palate, bright lift of citrus acidity, black fruits, and with a grip of dusty tannin.

Beronia, Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2010 Beronia, Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2010

Beronia, Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2010

87

Recommended

Fragrant, herbal nose with cedar spice. Much oak is promised but it's well handled. Supple, juicy palate with well integrated tannins and a full body.

Campo Viejo, Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2008 Campo Viejo, Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2008

Campo Viejo, Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2008

88

Recommended

Fragrant, herbal nose with cedar spice. Much oak is promised but it's well handled. Supple, juicy palate with well integrated tannins and a full body.

Faustino, I, Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2001 Faustino, I, Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2001

Faustino, I, Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2001

92

Highly recommended

Opulent aromas of mulberries, with cedar and vanilla overtones. Full body, expressive and complex, so very particular. Full of energy for its age, with years ahead and a powerful lingering finish.

Baron de Ley, Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2010 Baron de Ley, Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2010

Baron de Ley, Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2010

95

Outstanding

Dusty rose and violet nose; followed by a rich supple palate; super delicate. Only Rioja can do this and with American oak. The oak adds a grainy texture and complexity to the fruit. The finish is long, with a hint of spice.