Get to know: Glorioso Rioja Crianza 2020

A classic Spanish red wine from the prestigious Rioja Alavesa.

Tasting Note

Glorioso Rioja Crianza is an elegant red that balances vibrant fruit with the subtle influence of oak. Deep ruby in colour, it shows aromas of blackberry, cherry, and strawberry layered with hints of vanilla, spice, and toast from 12 months in French oak. On the palate, the Tempranillo fruit feels ripe and juicy, supported by medium acidity and fine, silky tannins. It finishes long and smooth, with a velvety texture that captures the hallmark elegance of Rioja wines.

Top food pairings:

• Grilled lamb chops with rosemary
• Oily fish such as swordfish
• Mature Manchego or other hard cheeses

Kate Says

“Rioja is the oldest and most popular wine region in Spain. The traditional Crianza, aged in oak for at least 12 months, is a great place to discover this style. The Gloriosostands out with it’s vibrant fruit. I’d enjoy this with some grilled lamb chops.”

Producer Info

Bodegas Palacio, founded in 1894 in Laguardia, is one of the pioneering wineries of Rioja Alavesa. Their iconic Glorioso label, first created in 1917, has become a benchmark for the region. Nestled between the Sierra de Cantabria and the River Ebro, the vineyards benefit from a unique microclimate that protects the vines and allows slow, balanced ripening. Today, the estate combines over a century of tradition with modern, sustainable practices from solar power and rainwater capture to responsible vineyard management all while producing wines that showcase Riojas timeless character.

How its made:

• Varieties: 100% Tempranillo
• Grapes selected from calcareous clay terraces in Rioja Alavesa
• Cold maceration prior to fermentation for aromatic expression
• Long, temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks
• Aged for 12 months in medium-toast French oak, followed by at least 12 months in bottle

Good to know:

• Region: Rioja Alavesa, Spain
• Style: Red, still, medium-bodied
• Closure: Natural cork
• Vegan: Yes
• ABV: 14%
• Vintage: 2020

Why we love it:

This Rioja red wine offers the best of both worlds: vibrant Tempranillo fruit and refined oak character. Its versatile at the table, equally at home with lamb, grilled meats, or hearty cheeses a brilliant example of why Rioja remains Spains most celebrated wine region.