Castillo de Epifanía Rioja Alta 2021

In Spain’s fine wine capital of Rioja, the land rises to a soaring mountain range in the northwest. This ‘shelf’ is Rioja Alta, home to “most of the region’s top producers” (World Atlas of Wine). For centuries, winemakers have sought its elevation to grow Tempranillo with intense fruit flavors and an unmatched lift of freshness.

Then why have so many fans have never heard of ‘Rioja Alta?’

Most of the premium fruit of Rioja Alta is used to ‘class up’ blends from the big brands. Plus, only estates from two specific villages are permitted to add ‘Rioja Alta’ to their labels. One is the family winery of Juan-Antonio Leza, who brought global fame to the Goméz Cruzado estate.

His latest release is named after its single vineyard origin, a parcel of land once tended by monks and whose chapel displays Renaissance painting The Altarpiece of the Epiphany. Aged in fine oak barrels, the wine has a dark fruit silkiness with a touch of vanilla spice and is very deserving of its multiple gold and double-gold medals.

Take the step up to Rioja Alta and order your share today (and get the tapas or roasted lamb ready).