The 2021 Bodegas Exopto Rioja La Mimbrera de Exopto is a beautifully distinctive and deeply expressive Rioja crafted from a tiny old-vine field blend planted on limestone soils in Ábalos, Rioja Alta. Made by Tom Puyaubert with a minimal-intervention philosophy, the wine combines Tempranillo, Garnacha and a small amount of Viura, co-fermented and aged in used French oak and sandstone amphora. The nose reveals blackberry, dark cherry and blueberry layered alongside violet, white pepper and wild Mediterranean herbs, giving the wine remarkable freshness and complexity.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with chalky tannins, vibrant natural acidity and beautifully concentrated dark berry fruit. Layers of blackberry, plum and savoury spice are balanced by limestone-driven minerality and subtle earthy depth, finishing long, structured and finely detailed with impressive tension and ageing potential.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2021 Bodegas Exopto Rioja La Mimbrera de Exopto is a superb modern Rioja - savoury, mineral and beautifully structured with outstanding freshness and finesse. Perfect with roast lamb, grilled chorizo, mushroom dishes, braised meats or aged Manchego. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar through 2042+.
