+ 1/2
So I grabbed this 2020 Valdepalacios Rioja from Spain because it had a label callout boasting a 92-point score. Naturally, I was intrigued—because nothing says “trust me” like a number slapped on a bottle by a mystery wine overlord. I figured, “Hey, if it’s a 92, I’m basically doing myself a disservice not buying it.” Did it live up to the hype? Read on…
Now, credit where it’s due: the back label actually had some decent information. Grapes, aging, flavor notes—hallelujah! Finally, a bottle that doesn’t make me read a novel about the winemaker’s childhood pet goose. This one proudly mentioned aging in both French and American oak, which tells me this wine has no shame.
First sniff? Strong, but good. A little mysterious—kind of like someone who wears leather and won’t tell you what they do for a living. The taste was classic Rioja dry, but with a surprisingly full body and more fruit than expected. Not sweet though—just fruit that had seen some things. Maybe even seen things not to be repeated. It also had a mild aftertaste and a bit of puckeryishness (which is totally a word now, you’re welcome). At 14.5% ABV, it wasn’t messing around. This wine has umph with a capital U. Made with 100% Tempranillo grapes, it delivers that earthy vibe with just enough fruit to keep you guessing.
I paired it with some lasagna (store-bought because let’s be honest, I’m not out here hand-rolling pasta on a Tuesday), and it actually worked. The wine held up like a champ next to all that cheese and tomato sauce, waving its 14.5% ABV like a flag of honor. Definitely had some umph—not a subtle, whispery Rioja.
At $9.99 (on sale from $17, because obviously I’m a financial genius), this Rioja delivered a pretty solid ride. Was it really a 92? I don’t know. Maybe if I’d eaten fancier lasagna. But for a Tuesday night with store bought Italian, it definitely earns its place in the “decent Tuesday night bottle that makes me feel slightly fancier than I am” category. Sure, let’s call it a 92… with an asterisk or two.
Types of Grapes: Tempranillo
ABV % / Fun Juice Level: 14.5%
Origin: Spain
Grocery Outlet Price: $9.99
