2023 Artuke Pies Negros Rioja

"Pies Negros" literally translates to "black feet," a direct nod to the old-school, traditional practice of foot-stomping the grapes. While the de Miguel brothers are firmly at the forefront of the new wave in Rioja, this village wine from Ábalos proves they still hold a deep respect for authentic, small-scale winemaking. It strikes a brilliant balance between rustic, hands-on methods and a vibrant, modern profile in the glass.

The 2023 release is a blend of predominantly Tempranillo, but it is the 10% to 15% addition of Graciano that really defines the wine's character. The Graciano gives it a serious edge, bringing underlying structure, deep colour, and a cool, driving freshness. The fruit is destemmed, foot-stomped, and naturally fermented before spending about a year maturing primarily in large 500-litre oak barrels, with a small portion kept in concrete to preserve its lively energy.

It's flat delicious, leaning toward precision and depth rather than simple, easy charm. You get dark berries, subtle spice, and a hint of classic Rioja fruitcake, all lifted by a Burgundy-like vibrancy and clarity. The palate is tightly controlled but generous, driven by a velvety mouthfeel, fine tannins, and a poised, energetic finish. It is a serious, powerful Rioja that massively overdelivers on class.

94 points
"Excellent form and feel, great persistence and gentle sweet spice lingers. Wonderful, fragrant, medium weight and tannin drawn expression."
- Mike Bennie (The Wine Front)