Exopto 2023
The Intensity of Modern Rioja
"The ultimate expression of contemporary Rioja: a bold blend that achieves a masterful balance between power, freshness, and deep minerality."
Avant-garde and Atlantic Terroir
Exopto 2023 is the soul of Tom Puyaubert's project. Born on the slopes of the Sierra Cantabria, this wine challenges Riojan classicism by giving prominence to old-vine Garnacha and Graciano. The result is a red wine with surprising vertical freshness, where the altitude and calcareous soils of Ábalos define an elegant, powerful, and profoundly honest personality. A safe bet for immediate enjoyment as well as for modern collecting.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: Bodegas Exopto.
- Origin: Ábalos, Sierra Cantabria (D.O.Ca. Rioja).
- Varietal: Garnacha, Graciano, and Tempranillo.
- Aging: Fine-grain French oak.
- Volume: 750 ml.
- Aging Potential: 10 to 12 years.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Intense ruby red color with garnet rim. Medium-high intensity, bright, with dense legs indicating its structure.
Nose: Complex and profound. Predominant notes of black forest fruits and ripe cherries, intertwined with licorice, black pepper, and a subtle calcareous mineral background characteristic of the area.
Palate: Powerful and enveloping entry. A citrusy and vertical freshness stands out, balancing the fruit ripeness. The tannins are polished, leading to a long, spicy, and very persistent finish.
3. Style Analysis
STRUCTURE / BODY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
FRUIT INTENSITY [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
FRESH / VIBRANT [ ● ● ● ● ● ]
MODERN RIOJA TYPICITY [ HIGH ]
4. Serving Art and Pairing
Cuisine: Grilled red meats, oxtail, roasted lamb, small game, and aged sheep cheeses.
Preparation: It is recommended to decant for 30 to 45 minutes to allow the Graciano and Garnacha to fully express themselves.
Temperature: Serve ideally between 16°C and 18°C in a Bordeaux-style glass.
