2024 · Garnacha / Tempranillo / Graciano
Rioja DOCa · Rioja · Spain
The Story
Exopto is the original wine of Bodegas Exopto, founded in Laguardia in 2003 by Bordeaux-trained winemaker Tom Puyaubert. Rather than relying solely on Rioja’s traditional Tempranillo profile, the wine brings together Garnacha, Tempranillo and Graciano to create a youthful, vibrant expression of the region—fragrant, juicy and fresh, with an emphasis on fruit and balance.
Aroma
Bright aromas of ripe strawberry and cherry lead into raspberry and blueberry, layered with delicate violet, mineral and subtle spice notes. The aromatic profile is expressive and lifted, with the Garnacha bringing generous red-fruit character and the Graciano adding freshness and complexity.
Palate
Juicy and energetic, with vibrant red and blue berry fruit supported by fresh acidity and fine, well-integrated tannins. The palate is supple rather than heavy, combining Garnacha’s generosity with Tempranillo’s balance and Graciano’s natural freshness.
✨ Finish
Fresh, clean and persistent, with raspberry, cherry and blueberry lingering alongside a subtle mineral edge. The finish is remarkably lively for a young Rioja, leaving the palate refreshed and ready for another sip.
️ Origin
Rioja DOCa · Rioja · Spain The 2024 Cosecha draws from old-vine vineyards in Rioja, including Garnacha from Alfaro and Tempranillo from Ábalos. Bodegas Exopto’s vineyards include vines ranging from approximately 30 to 80 years old, planted in gravelly, sandy and stony soils that help preserve freshness while allowing the fruit to ripen fully.
The Blend
60% Garnacha · 35% Tempranillo · 5% Graciano
Garnacha provides the wine’s ripe berry fruit and supple texture; Tempranillo contributes balance and classic Rioja character, while a small proportion of Graciano adds acidity, freshness and aromatic lift.
The Cellar
The fruit is handled to preserve its freshness and expressive character, with fermentation taking place across stainless steel, concrete and oak vessels. The 2024 vintage receives approximately six months of élevage, including concrete, French oak vats and used French oak barrels, allowing the fruit to remain at the centre of the wine rather than being dominated by wood.
️ Perfect With
Spanish tapas & cured meats
Grilled ribeye or skirt steak
Herb-roasted or grilled lamb
Wild mushrooms with garlic and herbs
Manchego and other firm aged cheeses
Critical Acclaim
92 points — Robert Parker Wine Advocate
92 points — Tim Atkin
90 points — Decanter
⏳ Drink
2025–2032
A youthful Rioja designed to be enjoyed for its vibrant fruit, freshness and supple texture. It is already approachable and expressive, while a few years in bottle should allow the fruit, spice and mineral nuances to knit together further.
