*** John Wilson Irish Times Critic Wine Review of the Week May 2nd 2020  *** 'A light hand with the oak allows the ripe, rounded dark cherry fruits to shine through. A very stylish elegant Rioja. Perfect with grilled lamb or pork chops' John Wilson, Irish Times, May 2nd, 2020 Country: Spain Region: Rioja Varietal: 95% Tempranillo & 5% Mazuelo. Vintage: 2017  Colour: Red Style: Dry Producer: Bodegas Navajas Description: A family winery that was founded in 1918 as Bodegas Arjona, but in 1983 the Navajas family became the sole shareholders and changed its name to Bodegas Navajas. Navajas believes that the quality of the wine begins in the vineyards and for this reason they monitor and control the vineyards which belong to their growers in the Rioja Alta and Rioja Baja. Tasting Note: This smooth, plump Rioja wins pride of place as one of our members' favourite reds vintage after vintage. We love its combination of vanilla-infused flavour from high-quality oak ageing and vibrant red-fruit notes. Food Matches: Casseroles / Lamb / Smoked Fish / Soft Cheese