2022 Bodegas Ilurce Rio Madre Rioja Graciano

Rio Madre 2022 showcases one of Rioja’s rare treasures: 100 % Graciano.
Bodegas Ilurce farms thirty-year vines rooted in stony, iron-rich soils near Alfaro at 400 m elevation.
Hot, sunny days ripen black fruit; brisk Ebro River breezes lock in perfume and acidity.
Hand-picked clusters ferment on native yeasts in temperature-controlled steel for eighteen days with gentle pump-overs, developing vivid color and supple tannin.
The wine rests six months in new French barrels, weaving cedar spice and soft vanilla through juicy blueberry, violet, and licorice notes.
Bottled unfined and lightly filtered, it offers modern Rioja intensity balanced by Graciano’s natural freshness—a crowd-pleasing red that also rewards short-term cellaring.

Nose: Violet, blueberry, and blackberry jam drift over hints of cocoa, clove, and dusty cedar.

Palate: Lush black cherry and plum race across velvety tannins, lifted by black-pepper spice and lively acidity.

Finish: Long, dry close echoes dark fruit, savory herb, and a refreshing mineral snap.

Fantastic with paprika-rubbed lamb chops, chorizo and white-bean stew, or aged Manchego paired with quince paste—the wine’s bold fruit and bright lift complement rich, savory flavors.