Driving through...Rioja!

The Rioja wine region, located in northern Spain, is renowned for its exceptional red wines, particularly those made from Tempranillo, but they also produce some fantastic rose and white wines too. Divided into three sub-regions—Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental—each offers distinct terroirs and microclimates that contribute to the complexity of the wines.

In Rioja, the contrast between old-school producers and the new wave represents a shift in winemaking philosophy and style. Old-school producers emphasize tradition, with long aging periods in American oak barrels and a focus on the blending of grapes from different vineyards.

On the other hand, the new wave of Rioja winemakers is embracing a more modern, terroir-driven approach. They prioritize minimal intervention, shorter aging periods, and often use French oak or a combination of oak types to achieve a more balanced expression of fruit and wood. These winemakers often focus on single-vineyard or single-varietal bottlings, aiming for purity of fruit, freshness, and a more vibrant, immediate drinking experience.

We will be opening bottles from both classic and new wave producers to pour by the glass alongside a four course shared menu for $75 per head;

Pulled lamb croquette, rouille

Zucchini flower, salted cod roe, nduja, goats curd

Patatas a la riojana clams, smoked tomato, chilli

Cod fillet, green sauce, asparagus

Red peppers, mushroom, bechemal

Chard salad, broad beans, artichoke, peas

Torrijas a la riojana, burnt pear ice cream

Our usual extensive wine list will be available alongside some of Rioja's finest wines by the glass