Bagordi is a small, attractive Bodega, situated near Andosilla in the Rioja Oriental area, previously known as Rioja Baja. The estate is owned by Luis Carcar who has great respect for the sustainability and the long term health of the vineyards. He has farmed organically since 1997 and the winemaking is very much non-intervention, making the most of the superb quality of the grapes. The vineyards mostly surround the Bodega near the banks of the Ega and Ebro rivers. The soils are rather poor, which is ideal for vines, and the climate here in this southern part of Rioja has dry summers followed by cold winters. These work well for organic viticulture as the lack of rain reduces mildew and other rot and the winter cold kills off other pests and diseases. The wines are fresh and fruity with a relatively high proportion of premium Graciano in the blend. They also age very well, evidenced by this Reserva from 2012 vintage. It is drinking beautifully at over 10 years old. This is classically elegant Rioja spent 18 months in French oak barrels and then further ageing in bottle at the estate. It is smooth, sophisticated with good depth of red fruits, vanilla, exotic spices and a long aromatic finish.