2011 Bodegas de Ayala 'Vina Santurnia' Gran Reserva

This 30 ha estate has 8 ha of old vines near Brinas, and the family has been producing wines since the 1930's for their restaurant in the village. In 1983, Gonzalo's grandfather expanded sales to a wider market, using the Vina Santurnia label. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria, the vineyards of Bodegas de Ayala lie on the border between Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa. Surrounded by windy slopes, their old vines benefit from the unique calcareous clay soils at a slightly elevated altitude, distinguishing them from their well-known neighbours. 2011 Viña Santurnia Gran Reserva is classic mature Rioja in the traditional style — savoury, complex and beautifully mellow with age. It is made from 90% Tempranillo with 5% each of Graciano and Mazuelo, sourced from vineyards over 50 years old. Traditional fermentation is followed by 24–36 months ageing in oak barrels — around 80% American oak and 20% French — before a further 36–48 months ageing in bottle prior to release. The result is a Rioja with real depth, savoury complexity and beautifully mature character. The nose is full of dried cherry, plum and red berry fruit alongside notes of cedar, tobacco, vanilla, leather and gentle spice. On the palate it’s smooth and savoury, with softened tannins, balanced freshness and subtle smoky oak sitting underneath the fruit. There’s a lovely mature character here without feeling tired or overly heavy — the kind of Rioja that works brilliantly with roast lamb, hard cheeses or simply a long lunch with good company.