Coto De Imaz Gran Reserva 2017

Coto de Imaz Gran Reserva 2017 is a textbook example of why Rioja remains one of the world’s great red-wine regions. Produced by El Coto de Rioja in the high-altitude subzone of Rioja Alta, this wine starts with carefully selected estate fruit grown on limestone-rich clay soils, which naturally deliver concentration, freshness, and balance, all essential for long aging. 

The blend is built around Tempranillo, complemented by a small proportion of Graciano. Tempranillo brings ripe fruit and classic Rioja character, while Graciano contributes lifted aromatics, acidity, and spice, helping the wine age gracefully over time. 

After fermentation in stainless steel, the 2017 Gran Reserva spends around two years in a mix of American and French oak barrels, followed by at least three years of quiet evolution in bottle before release. This extended regime is what elevates the wine from simple “Reserva” to true Gran Reserva status, integrating the tannins and layering subtle oak complexity over the core of fruit. 

In the glass, the wine shows a bright ruby hue with brick-tinged edges, a visual cue of its maturity. The nose is complex and constantly evolving: black plum and blackberry glide into notes of red cherry, vanilla, coconut, and sweet baking spice, with touches of tobacco leaf, leather, earth, and roasted nuts emerging as it opens. 

On the palate, Coto de Imaz Gran Reserva 2017 is medium- to full-bodied and impeccably structured. The tannins are firm yet polished, supported by vibrant acidity that keeps the wine lively rather than heavy. Layers of dark fruit, oak spice, and savory, earthy undertones build toward a long, persistent finish. It’s no surprise the 2017 has earned 91 points from James Suckling, underlining both its quality and aging potential. 

At the table, this is a natural match for roast lamb, beef rib roast, game birds, and slow-cooked stews, and it also shines alongside hard, aged cheeses. Pour it for a special dinner now after a short decant, or lay a few bottles down to enjoy how it evolves over the next several years.