At a glance

Producer

Bodegas y Viñedos Ilurce

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Graciano

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$12-18 USD (secondary market/auction as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Aromas of dried cherry, plum, rustic herbs, subtle oak; palate shows stewed dark fruits, leather, earthy notes, softened tannins and persistent acidity

Evolution: Primary fruit has faded to reveal mature, tertiary character; spice and herbal complexity persist. Acidity keeps it lively but intensity is waning.

At peak: Notably expressive between 2015-2017; likely to continue showing tertiary/faded fruit through 2025

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus; helps maintain freshness even at age

Tannins

Medium; originally firm, now integrating and softening

Alcohol

Approximately 14%

Aging potential

Intended for mid-term aging; rarely exceeds 10-11 years at peak

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2015 to 2017

Optimal window

2014 to 2018

Current status

Approaching maturity; at or near peak for most bottles, with possible slight decline for some

Current condition

Fully mature; fruit character is fading, more tertiary notes present. Drink up soon for best experience

This wine was crafted for early enjoyment but has a robust Graciano backbone and solid acidity. Its peak was approachable and expressive in the first few years post-release. At over a decade old, it's transitioned to a more developed profile, emphasizing secondary and tertiary aromas rather than fresh fruit.

Food pairing

Best with grilled lamb, rustic stews, roasted vegetables, Spanish charcuterie, and dishes with earthy flavors (mushroom, lentil, game poultry).

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that are integrating and softening, which suggests it will benefit from aeration to enhance its flavors and aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Producer focuses on integrated pest management, native yeast fermentation, and minimal intervention. Estate vineyards are dry-farmed where possible; limited use of synthetic inputs reported. Standard lightweight glass bottles; cork closure.

While Bodegas Ilurce demonstrates several positive sustainability behaviors common in Rioja (dry farming, low-intervention winemaking), it lacks formal certification and transparency compared to top sustainable estates. Packaging is lightweight and local grape sourcing helps, but export footprint is average. Improvements in solar energy or certified eco-farming would help boost sustainability score.