2011 Viñedos de Páganos, Rioja Gran Reserva "El Puntido" (Jeb Dunnuck 95 PTS.)

Having just returned from a whirlwind tour of Spain–hitting a good portion of the major regions in just a few days–I’m eager to share some discoveries with you. To kick things off I have a true modern classic from, where else, Rioja! I confess that before the trip I was not super familiar with Rioja Alavesa in general, and the winery of Viñedos de Páganos in specific. And wow, my eyes were opened! The Páganos team has for decades been on the cutting edge of Rioja wine production, effortlessly blending modern techniques with the region’s storied traditions, and focusing on meticulous, natural farming in the vineyards. Their special cru Gran Reserva, from a single vineyard called “El Puntido”, is the culmination of their work. At well over a decade of age now, this soaring, powerfully built, Tempranillo showpiece is just beginning to hit its peak drinking window, where it will remain for many years to come. The list of awards, high scores, and press accolades is long for this wine, but a