2024 Bodegas Patrocinio Zinio Tempranillo, Rioja

Bodegas Patrocinio Zinio Tempranillo from Rioja is a bright, juicy and modern expression of Spain’s most famous red variety, crafted by a grower owned cooperative that has become one of the quiet success stories of Rioja Alta. Zinio is produced from Tempranillo grown on elevated slopes around Uruñuela where the cooler climate, clay limestone soils and steady Atlantic influence create fruit with lifted aromatics, vibrant acidity and a smooth tannin profile. These vineyards sit between four hundred and five hundred metres above sea level, giving the wine freshness and purity while still reflecting the ripe red fruit character that Rioja does so well. Bodegas Patrocinio has invested heavily in vineyard health and sustainability over the last decade, resulting in clean, balanced fruit that forms the backbone of the Zinio range.

Winemaking is focused on accessibility and clarity. Grapes are picked at optimal ripeness, destemmed and fermented in stainless steel at controlled temperatures to preserve Tempranillo’s floral notes and red fruited charm. A short period of ageing in a mixture of French and American oak adds gentle spice, vanilla and roundness without pushing the wine into overt oakiness. The style is deliberately fresh, supple and immediately appealing, showing the modern Rioja ethos of fruit first with subtle supporting structure.

In the glass it shows a deep ruby red colour. The nose is inviting and fragrant with red cherry, raspberry and plum at the forefront mixed with hints of violets, redcurrant, baking spice, vanilla and a touch of sweet earth. As it opens, notes of dried herbs, cocoa and a faint mineral edge begin to emerge, adding depth while retaining the wine’s easy drinking brightness.

The palate is smooth, medium bodied and very approachable. Juicy red berries glide across soft, rounded tannins balanced by fresh acidity. Flavours of cherry, strawberry, pomegranate and plum mingle with gentle oak spice, a hint of mocha and a clean, lightly savoury undertone. The finish is long, soft and satisfying with lingering red fruit and a touch of spice. This is Rioja designed for everyday pleasure, but it carries enough structure to stay interesting and enough purity to appeal to lovers of classic Tempranillo. It drinks beautifully young and can hold nicely for three to five years.

Pair it with grilled lamb chops, Spanish tortilla, chorizo, tomato based pasta, roast chicken, tapas, manchego cheese, stuffed peppers or mushroom and herb dishes. Its freshness and smooth tannins make it an incredibly versatile food wine.