Wine Maker’s Notes:

“Not surprising Las Gravas comes from a profoundly rocky, single vineyard of the same name. You’d also be hard pressed to call it soil since before you can get to anything resembling dirt you have to go through a foot of stones. Here Jose Maia and his father planted Monastrell, Garnacha and Syrah, each of which contribute to the final blend of Las Gravas. While the other cuvees from the estate show the unique expression of site and variety, Las Gravas is a broader lesson in terroir and the varieties that thrive here. Las Gravas is harvested by hand and fermented in underground stone tanks with manual pigeage. Once primary fermentation is complete the wine is aged in 500 liter French oak barrels for 18 months. In most vintages only 20% of the barrels are new.”

.Rating: 93 Points (Wine Advocate)

“The classical 2015 Viña Real Reserva is a blend of Tempranillo with 10% Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano from a warm and early harvest that fermented in stainless steel vats and aged in new oak barriques for 22 months with rackings every four months. I find it very expressive, aromatic and open, ripe and hedonistic but without excess. It has the soft and approachable profile of the Alavesa wines but with the grip of the fine-grained, chalky tannins. It's gentle but has clout. Delicious! 340,000 bottles produced. I tasted from the only bottling of 2018.”

Rating: 95 pts (Wine Spectator)

“This plush red delivers boysenberry and raspberry compote flavors, with notes of vanilla, licorice and forest floor. Firm tannins and bright acidity keep this focused. Sleek and polished through the floral finish. Vibrant and expressive. Drink now through 2028.”

Rating: 96 Points (Wine Spectator)

“Maturing well, this round red is a lovely example of the traditional style. Orange peel, dried cherry, forest floor, vanilla and black tea flavors mingle harmoniously over round tannins and citrusy acidity. Generous but gentle, lively, balanced and harmonious. Tempranillo and Mazuelo. Drink now through 2030. 680 cases imported.”