Limpid ruby. Incisive, mineral-accented red and blue fruit and floral scents show fine clarity and pick up a spicy nuance with aeration. Smooth in texture and appealingly sweet, offering nicely concentrated blueberry and black raspberry flavors braced by an undercurrent of juicy acidity. Finishes very long and silky, with sneaky tannins and resonating red fruit and mineral notes.

The 2016 Rioja La Social is a value-priced field blend release (Tempranillo and Garnacha) that's brought up in neutral barrels. It has a juicy, dark-fruited bouquet of savory spices, leather, and cedary herbs. These carry to a medium-bodied wine that has good overall balance, some savory tannins, plenty of sweet fruit, and a dry finish that's going to pair well with food. It should keep nicely of 4-5 years. This character-filled Rioja would be a great house red.