Bodega Akutain Rioja Reserva 2020
Red 14% ABV ABV AkutainBirthday treat that delivered
Bought this for my 40th birthday dinner and honestly it was the highlight of the evening. Really smooth, no burn at all despite being 14%, and it just kept getting better as it opened up. The smell alone had me excited before I even tasted it. Would absolutely buy again.
Genuinely impressed
I'm not usually a Rioja person but this changed my mind a bit. There's a lot going on — fruit, acidity, everything working together properly. The finish is clean and lingers just enough without being overbearing. Shared it with friends and everyone commented on how good it was.
Perfect with lamb
Had this with a slow-cooked lamb shoulder on Sunday and it was a brilliant match. Loads of depth and layers of flavour that kept me coming back to it. Not heavy at all which surprised me given the ABV. Really well balanced.
Solid Rioja but not cheap
The wine shop guy recommended this when I said I wanted a proper Rioja for under £40. It's good — classic Rioja nose, nice structure, decent finish. But at £37 I'd probably reach for something a bit cheaper for everyday drinking. One for a special occasion.