Azabache Organic Rioja 2022 (Spain)

Description

“Good colour, a touch of vanilla and toast on the nose, cedary fruit under that, some secondary characters dark chocolate, vinosity. Juicy, primary fruit in the mouth, dark fruits, but then great texture, firm finish/structure. If anything, this wine needs a little more time to come together. This is a serious wine at a ridiculous price. Tasted late in 2025, this was my Wine of the Year, because of how much it delivers for the price. Typically, I am blown away by some obscure appellation or grape variety, or maybe it is an old wine that I had expected would be dead. But this latest vintage of Azabache is incredibly impressive, expressive and well put together” Paul Tudor, Master of Wine

“It’s delightfully styled with complexity, showing dark berry, fine leather, potpourri, and elegant oak characters on the nose. The palate is equally appealing with good weight, a rounded mouthfeel, and finely infused tannins, finishing long and satisfying. At its best: now to 2030" Sam Kim, Wine Orbit

Good colour with a touch of vanilla and toast on the nose, cedary fruit, dark chocolate and vinosity. The palate shows juicy primary dark berry and cherry fruit, good weight, rounded mouthfeel, finely infused tannins, and a firm, structured finish with excellent length. 

Fincas de Azabache is a state-of-the-art cooperative founded in 1956 in Aldeanueva de Ebro (Rioja Oriental), now farming 502 ha of certified-organic, family-owned vineyards at the foot of Mount Yerga between 350-600 metres above sea level. The extreme continental climate (hot days, cold nights, very low rainfall) and alluvial/ferrous-clay soils make organic viticulture natural and deliver concentrated, characterful fruit. A brand-new high-tech winery (completed 2015) and the guidance of one of southern Rioja’s most respected winemakers, Martín Sáez Palacios (35+ years’ experience), ensure precision and purity. This wine is comprised of all of Rioja’s classic varieties — Tempranillo 60%, Garnacha 20% and Graciano 20%. Grapes are hand-harvested, fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel, then aged briefly in a mix of French and American oak to preserve vibrancy while adding subtle spice and structure. The result is a characterful wine that represents superb value for money.

Food Pairing: Outstanding with grilled or roasted lamb, steak, pork, chorizo sausages, mushroom dishes, hard cheeses like Manchego, or classic Spanish tapas.