2017 R. Lopez de Heredia, Rioja, Gravonia Crianza Blanco

Gravonia is the entry point into the legendary world of R. López de Heredia, a winery that has defined traditional Rioja since 1877. Made from 100% Viura grown in the Viña Zaconia vineyard, this wine is aged for four years in American oak—far longer than legal requirements.

The 2017 vintage was challenging: frost and drought dramatically reduced yields, resulting in a white Rioja of unusual power and density. However, the estate's signature oxidative aging process and the grape's natural acidity keep the wine lively. Expect a textured, savory white with notes of beeswax and dried herbs, built to evolve for decades.