Castillo del Ciego 2010

Javier Murúa of Barón de Barbón Rioja fame (his family have been crafting Rioja since the early 1900s) always keeps back a library of mature vintages from all his vineyards across Spain – a ‘live’ history of how they are ageing. Many customers only have eyes for Rioja, so wines – even Tempranillo – from other regions don’t command the same high price. All the better for those in the know. From a truly standout vintage, the Castello del Ciego 2010 is on top tasting form. Pure Tempranillo, long aged in barrel and bottle in Javier’s cool, dark cellars, the wine is tasting deliciously long, mellow and complex, with layers of mature red fruits marrying with toasty vanilla spice. Top choice with tapas, mushroom stroganoff and plain roast meats.