El Coto de Rioja Crianza 750ml

El Coto de Rioja was founded in 1970 in Rioja Alavesa, and its cellar is at Oyón, in Álava. Head winemaker César Fernández leads the winemaking, according to its UK importer, Liberty Wines.

The Crianza is 100% Tempranillo, mainly from old-vine parcels in Rioja Alavesa with some fruit from Rioja Alta and Rioja Oriental, on limestone and clay soils. It ages at least 12 months in 225-liter American oak barrels and at least 6 months in bottle, which Liberty says goes beyond what the law requires. It's a dry DOCa Rioja Crianza.

Importers describe ruby red with a garnet rim, red fruit, vanilla and toast, and a silky palate with sweet oak spice and a juicy finish. The Canadian importer Frechette also notes licorice.

Against Marqués de Riscal Reserva, El Coto is the younger Crianza at about half the price; for an everyday Rioja, choose El Coto.

Frechette suggests serving it at 16 to 18°C. Pour it with tapas, grilled lamb chops, chorizo or a midweek burger.

Browse more Rioja and Tempranillo and our wines under $20. Pick it up at our Brooklyn store or get same-day delivery across NYC.