Sela Rioja 2015

92 points, “One of the best Selas ever.” – Wine Advocate

Everything Bodegas Roda produce is awesome. But we particularly love Sela, their thrillingly youthful expression from sustainably farmed vineyards. It’s a modern Rioja for a younger generation who are less interested in drinking something with the fusty gravitas of a stately home library.

Fresh berry fruit, rolling tobacco, Mediterranean herbs, dried flowers and a pinch of smoked pepper; this Tempranillo, Grenache and Graciano spends twelve months in oak, so does not lose its wonderful vibrancy and nervy energy. As wine critic James Suckling put it, this is a wine that’s “hitting above its fighting weight”.

Founded in the late-80s, Roda is a new breed of Rioja producer, one that has carried out meticulous scientific research to find the finest plots of old vines. What is lovely to see from this forward-thinking producer is their increased use of Grenache and Graciano to add freshness to their wines. Pair this vintage of Sela wine with rare roasts, fresh tomato sauces and herby dishes.