We have recently brought aboard a handful of incredible new Spanish wines into our portfolio. As we explained in a previous post, Spain is a perfect storm of opportunity for wineries to produce amazing value wines perfectly fitted for today’s consumer demands.

One of these new labels is Vina Eguia, from Rioja. As explained on the website of the importer, Quintessential Wines:

The Viña Eguia winery and vineyards were established in 1973 in Elciego and purchased by Father and Son, Jose and Julian Murua of Bodegas Muriel in 2010. Elciego is a town in the Rioja Alavesa, which borders the Spanish “Basque” region, and the language spoken there often includes Basque words, such as “Eguia” which means “truth.” The brand is symbolized by an open hand over the label, which is in the shape of an open book, analogous to putting one’s hand on a bible to swear to the truth of what one is saying.

These wines represent some of the top values we’ve tasted in classically styled Rioja, showing elements of detail and refinement rarely experienced at this price point (under $20 retail).

The 2008 Vina Eguia Crianza is 91 points from The Wine Advocate, which expressed:

The 2008 Vina Eguia Crianza is aged in American oak for 12 months. The nose demands coaxing from the glass, but it eventually offers a crisp, natural bouquet of dark berries, burnt toast and singed leather. The palate is very well-balanced, with lithe tannins that caress the mouth. The oak is seamlessly integrated towards the lingering, supple finish. This is a very well-crafted, natural Rioja. Drink now-2018. 91 points.

And our internal tasting note is equally enthusiastic:

The Tempranillo grape is capable of such elegance and finesse, and at the same time power. It’s the classic “Iron fist in a velvet glove.” The Vina Eguia Crianza 2008 is a true bargain, with classic aromas of black raspberry, worn leather, and clove spices. The look and aromas are decidedly medium bodied, without too much darkness or purple jam coming through (Rioja that is too modern in style hides all the beauty that Tempranillo is capable of). The taste is grand, with grippy acidity on the attack followed by juicy minerality and succulent fruit through a long finish. A touch of dill in the aromas shows the American oak in use, but here is used sparingly and with deft precision. A grand wine, idea for slow roasted meats, poultry, or just a plate of manchego with some jamon on the side. – Wine review by Jason Kallsen, April 2013