The Château-inspired winery is a relatively new player in Rioja. Started in 1985 by a group of wine entrepreneurs, Baron de Ley quickly positioned themselves as a quality committed producer: small-yield crops, hand-harvested grapes sourced exclusively from their own vineyards, manual grape sorting (about 850 tons per harvest), dynamic wine-making approach, and state of art barrel/bottle ageing facilities. They established their headquarters in a 16th Century Benedictine monastery on the banks of the Ebro River in Rioja Baja near the town of Mendavia. Their flagship wine Rioja Reserva (tempranillo) received 95 pts by Decanter Magazine for the 2010 vintage. Other unique and exciting wines are completing the offer amongst which a Rioja Reserva Blanco (Viura, Malvasia and Garnacha Blanca); two Rioja reds from the indigenous grapes Graciano and Maturana; and a Rioja Reserva in which seven varieties are blended together (Tempranillo, Graciano, Garnacha Tinta, Mazuelo, Viura, Malvasia and Garnacha blanca).

Old vine Tempranillo from the Cenicero vineyards located in Rioja Alta. Protected from the cold north winds by the Sierra Cantabria and Oberenes mountain ranges, this zone has a predominantly Atlantic climate, with long winters, cool summers and warm autumns. Hand harvested. Aged 24 months in 50% American and 50% French oak barrels. It has spent another 3 years rounding off in the bottle before release.

This is a fine gran reserva from a great vintage. Aromas of vanilla, cedar, earth and spiced black fruits lead to a fresh pure palate with tomato-like snap. Cherry, cassis, tobacco and chocolate flavors finish smooth and clean, with just enough tannic grip.