Vina Zorzal Graciano 2023

Viña Zorzal's Graciano is a structured red from Navarra, Spain, showing what this underrated variety can do when it's grown in the right place and handled with care. This is Graciano at its most expressive – dark fruit, spice, and that characteristic acidity and structure that makes it so food-friendly.

Lying in the south of Navarra, Viña Zorzal is a project run by three brothers who inherited the estate from their parents. While they're best known for their great work with Garnacha, recuperating old vineyards and focusing on high altitude, bush-vine fruit, their Graciano shows the same attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Graciano is one of Spain's most interesting indigenous varieties, traditionally used as a blending grape in Rioja but increasingly bottled on its own by forward-thinking producers. What you get is dark berries, plum, spice, herbs, and that characteristic firm acidity and tannic structure that gives the wine real backbone. There's depth and complexity here, with enough structure to age gracefully but also approachable now.

The wine shows concentration and intensity without feeling heavy or overdone. The firm acidity keeps everything lifted and precise, making it incredibly versatile with food. This is the kind of wine that rewards attention and pairs beautifully with richer dishes.

Serve it at room temperature with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, stews, game, or aged cheeses. This is honest, characterful Spanish red from one of Navarra's most exciting producers, perfect for those looking for something beyond the usual Tempranillo.