Rioja can only come from Rioja. And this 2022 Crianza from Bodegas Ugalde Muerza is a textbook example of why that matters. Made from top-quality Tempranillo grapes at peak ripeness and aged for 12 months in American oak, it has that classic Rioja combination of generous red fruit and warm, toasty oak that is so immediately appealing. The nose is soft and inviting — ripe cherry, plum, and a lovely vanilla sweetness from the oak. On the palate it’s mouth-filling and generous, with smooth tannins, a lovely roundness, and a succulent finish with that signature vanilla undertone that lingers beautifully. Vegan and vegetarian friendly too. Brilliant everyday Rioja at a very honest price.