Amézola de la Mora Viña Amézola Crianza 2016 Rioja Alta, Spain 75cl

Bodegas Amézola de la Mora farms its own vineyards at Torremontalbo, in the cooler western reaches of Rioja Alta. Alongside its Reserva, the estate makes this Crianza as the more approachable, everyday expression of its house style, a wine to drink rather than lay down.

Viña Amézola is led by Tempranillo at around 85%, with Graciano and Mazuelo rounding out the blend and adding a little floral lift and spine. It sees enough time in oak to earn the Crianza label without losing the bright fruit that makes it so easy to enjoy young.

The 2016 vintage was a strong, balanced one across Rioja, giving reds that are ripe yet fresh, with good colour and even, ripe tannins. It plays directly to this wine’s supple, fruit-forward character.

On the nose it is fine and elegant, with blackberry knitting into gentle oak, and hints of vanilla, spice and nutmeg from the barrel. The palate is medium-bodied and smooth, the tannins soft, the finish clean and moreish. This is a Rioja to open and enjoy over dinner rather than to cellar for years.

Tim Atkin awarded it 91 points. If you like an easy-going Rioja Crianza or a soft, oak-touched Spanish red, it fits the bill without any pretension. Serve it a touch below room temperature with tapas, grilled chicken, chorizo, meatballs or a simple pasta. It is the sort of dependable, well-made bottle that earns a regular place on the table, and it makes a gentle introduction to the traditional Rioja style for anyone still finding their way.