Albina, Essencia, 2011

With the possible exception of the Rioja Alta 904, this is the flashiest Rioja we've ever sold.

Founded in 1890 by the Artacho and Carreras families, Bodegas Riojanas is one of the thirteen centenary Rioja wineries, its origins dating back to 1799.

85% of the barrels used to age this wine were made of new American oak whose wood had been dried for 4 years to reduce the amount of green tannins.

The remaining 15% were very fine-grained, lightly dry-toasted French oak barrels.

During the 24 month aging process, one of the main targets was to conserve the greatest amount of fruit. Every six months the barrels were racked, bringing out maximum flavour in the gentlest way possible.

I'm not sure what on earth McGrocer is doing selling this for £340 - reckon the value is closer to £100.