LEZA GARCIA CRIANZA TEMPRANILLO 2020, Rioja

The blackberry and mocha on the nose really drew me in, and that bittersweet chocolate note on the finish was a pleasant surprise. It’s smooth enough to enjoy on its own but has enough structure to pair with a hearty meal. Definitely picking up another bottle.

That touch of smoke alongside the mocha really comes through nicely, giving it a deeper profile than I expected from a crianza. Went well with lamb chops and the finish lingered just long enough.

Opened it with lamb chops last night, and that mocha-and-blackberry nose is exactly as described. The cherry and bittersweet chocolate on the palate made every sip feel like dessert.