Villota Tinto 2021

Villota Tinto 2021 is the flagship wine of this prestigious estate in Rioja Alavesa, Spain. It's widely praised by critics for its freshness, balance and intense aromatics.

James Suckling gave 93 points to Villota Tinto 2021, highlighting the balance between aromatic expression and structure.

In his review, he notes an enveloping aromatic profile, with notes of black cherry, blue plum and spicy nuances, along with hints of dark earth and a light touch of pepper that adds complexity.

On the palate, he describes a very fine, polished texture, marked by fresh, slightly “dusty” tannins that bring elegance and precision. A medium to full-bodied wine with a good link between fruit and tannic structure, making for a cohesive, balanced tasting.

Jeb Dunnuck gave 94 points to Villota Tinto 2021, rating it one of the highlights of the vintage and describing it as a truly impressive wine.

In his review, he notes an expressive, complex nose marked by aromas of cassis, delicate spice, mineral notes reminiscent of graphite and a touch of new leather, giving depth.

On the palate it's medium to full-bodied, with great purity of fruit and an enveloping texture. The tannins are very fine and well polished, integrated with balanced acidity that brings freshness and energy.

The finish is long and captivating, leaving an elegant, harmonious impression that reflects the identity of the Laserna terroir.

Dunnuck also notes that this wine is an excellent example of the contemporary Rioja style, favouring authentic expression of terroir and Tempranillo over excessive oak.

Tim Atkin gave 93 points to Villota Tinto 2021 in his annual Rioja report, highlighting the wine's strong identity and the quality of its terroir.

In his review, he notes the privileged location of the vineyards, in a warm spot by the River Ebro, very close to the renowned Viñedos del Contino estate, saying this gives the wine a particularly distinctive character.

The blend is described as very well judged, mainly Tempranillo with contributions of Graciano and a touch of Garnacha, aged in partly new French oak, which adds complexity without overpowering the fruit.

On tasting, it's both concentrated and fresh, with vibrant notes of fruit such as blueberry and citrus nuances, notably tangerine. The tannins are firm and well defined, supporting a balanced, energetic whole that culminates in a persistent, invigorating finish.

According to Atkin, it's already approachable but can develop in bottle over the next decade, until around 2032.