Taste the Difference Discovery Collection Bakeder, Rioja, Spain 2021

A newcomer to the Discovery Collection for autumn, this is a modern style of Rioja from dependable producer CVNE, whose more traditional Imperial Reserva is also a new listing. Made with grapes from Laguardia in cool Rioja Alavesa, it's classified as a village wine (Vino de Pueblo) instead of adhering to Rioja's traditional ageing qualifications. Classy aromas of gently spiced black cherry lead to a fresh palate; a mineral seam beneath spicy black fruit, with nicely judged oak (10 months in French barrels) and good tannic grip for food. Plenty of bang for your buck here!