2023 Olivier Riviere Rioja Tinto Rayos Uva

93 pts
A fresh, vibrant take on Rioja from rising star Olivier Rivière, made with minimal intervention and a focus on pure, expressive fruit.

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Sale price$42.00
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Description

Olivier Rivière is shaking up Rioja, and Rayos Uva is proof. This is his early-drinking, fruit-driven blend - 40% Tempranillo, 40% Garnacha, and 20% Graciano - sourced from the Aldeanueva de Ebro area in Rioja Baja. Aged only in tank, it’s all about freshness, vibrancy, and purity of fruit.

Originally from France, Olivier came to Spain in 2004 to convert vineyards to biodynamics and never left. His approach is more Burgundian than traditional Rioja, focusing on site expression rather than ageing classifications. Farming biodynamically, using wild ferments, and keeping winemaking minimal, he’s making some of the most exciting wines in the region.

Rayos Uva is the most approachable wine in his lineup, built for immediate enjoyment but still showing the finesse and attention to detail that defines his work. A great introduction to the new wave of Rioja.

93 points - "From tempranillo, garnacha, and a little graciano, this is a joven/nouveau-esque Rioja red raised in stainless steel tanks only. Olivier Rivière is part of a vanguard redefining Rioja through the lens of brighter, fresher reds and a lean into the realm of natural wines. Pristine reds emerge.

Crunchy and tart, red berry fruited, light with the twiggy spice, a touch of alpine herb and anise, fennel, green tomato accompanying. Great energy here. Surprisingly tightly wound and tense for the 14% alcohol on the label, not a whisper of breathiness or heat either. So energetic and gulpable. Indeed, it’s almost too youthful and bright, and could do with a little softening. Great drink, is the resulting phrase." - Mike. Bennie (The Wine Front)

Importer Notes:

His first red bottling 2023 Rioja Tinto 'Rayos Uva' is as pure and vibrant as Rioja can be. It is produced from the area of Aldeanuva de Ebro (Rioja Baja). The blend is dependent on the vintage but usually includes Tempranillo, Garnacha and Graciano – percentages change each year. Following fermentation it is aged only in tank and bursts with juicy, bright fruit that has a refreshing crunch. The finish is delicious and refreshing. This is Olivier’s most popular wine and for good reason, it's always a beauty and I think this 2023 is the best one yet !

Price Bracket $31 to $40
Type Red
Body Medium Bodied
Variety Tempranillo
Country Spain
Region Rioja
Reviewed By The Wine Front
Critic Score 93
Alcohol 14%
Size 750ml
Vintage 2023
Closure Cork

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