2021 Bodegas y Vinedos Ilurce Rio Madre Graciano [JS90][V90]

Producer: Bodegas y Vinedos Ilurce  Region: Rioja, Spain  Varietal: Graciano Year: 2021  James Suckling, 90 Points  "Very dark on the nose, with lots of raw spices, charcoal and some green peppercorns on top of the blackberries. Very full-bodied and spicy. Almost a bit monolithic, despite the fine-grained tannins. Quite a unique style. Drink in 2024."  Vinous, 90 Points  "The 2021 Graciano Rio Madre, sourced from Alfaro in Rioja Oriental, aged for six months in used French oak barrels.  This ripe, black-fruited wine features bay leaf and balsamic notes, complemented by plum marmalade.  Dry and juicy, the abundant and taut palate lingers with a lifted flavor, thanks to its heightened acidity.  This is a pleasing and sun-kissed expression of Graciano."  Winemaker Notes:  "Rio Madre is the result of the efforts of Jorge Ordóñez and Bodegas Ilurce to produce a 100% Graciano wine from D.O.C. Rioja. Mostly known for its role in adding complexity to the wines of Rioja Alta and Alavesa, Gra