95/100 - Elegant Garnacha from Elías López Montero, who is normally based in La Mancha but has recently launched an exciting range of wines as part of the CDVIN group of producers in Cordovín, the highest town where Garnacha can be cultivated in the Rioja Alta sub-region; grapes come from old vines grown at 700m. After fermentation in concrete vats, 30% of the wine was aged for eight months in 600-litre barrels and 70% in 1,200-litre clay tinajas (amphorae) from La Mancha. A great expression of the fresh Atlantic 2021 vintage. Beth Willard: Beautiful strawberry fruit, precise, super-elegant. A pure expression of the zone with an abundance of freshness and the prettiest of red berry fruit. Seductively moreish Valentin Radosav: Ripe fruit and sweet spice aromas. Consistent fruit expression of dark cherries and black plums. Refreshing acidity and a savoury, vibrant crunch on the finish. Diana Rollan: Violets and rose petals, raspberry and sandalwood. Balanced and textured with ripe tannins, vivid acidity and a savoury finish. Drinking window: 2024-2032.

93/100 - The pale and aromatic 2021 Ilusioverum CDVIN Garnacha is, as the somewhat cryptic name implies, Garnacha from the village of Cordovín, which hopefully can be named in full on the label soon. It's the code name for a group of producers to add value to those grapes that were used for a rosé in the past but, as seen here (and elsewhere), have potential for much more. It has aromas and flavors of violet pastille and aromatic herbs. It is medium-bodied, has very fine tannins and is polished, elegant, very attractive and clean. This is an expressive, aromatic and elegant Garnacha. Drink 2024-2033.