At a glance

Producer

Coto de Imaz

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo (typical Rioja blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$55

Tasting profile

Aromas of ripe red cherry, plum, leather, tobacco, vanilla, and spice from oak aging. Smooth palate with balanced tannins and a long finish.

Evolution: Will develop more tertiary notes like dried herbs, forest floor and intensified leather over the next 5-10 years.

At peak: At peak, complex and refined balance between fruit, oak, and earthy/spice elements with silky texture.

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity balancing richness

Tannins

Medium to high, well-integrated

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

15-20 years from vintage if properly cellared

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2032

Optimal window

2023 to 2035

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

Drinks well now, but will benefit from further bottle aging

2015 was a very strong vintage in Rioja, with excellent ripening conditions. Gran Reserva wines from top producers like Coto de Imaz typically require extended aging due to their traditional oak treatment and tannic structure, resulting in a long drinking window extending 15-20 years. The wine is entering its early maturity phase now and is expected to reach peak drinking quality during the latter half of this window.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted game birds, cured meats, aged Manchego cheese, and dishes with savory herbs and spices.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — To allow the wine to open up and soften tannins for better aromatic expression and mouthfeel.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Coto de Imaz focuses on sustainable vineyard management with some water conservation techniques and reduced use of chemical pesticides. Use of oak barrels is traditional but does not specifically highlight use of recycled or low-impact packaging.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, Coto de Imaz incorporates some sustainable vineyard practices. The wine’s production follows traditional Rioja gran reserva norms, which can include extensive oak aging and longer cellar times—factors increasing energy use slightly. Packaging is standard and carbon impact is typical for international distribution. Overall, sustainability is moderate but not leading edge.