It has been confirmed by DNA evidence that Tintilla de Rota is a synonym for Graciano – arguably Rioja’s finest (though by no means most widely used) grape variety. This is an unconventional fortified wine made from this seductive and perfumed grape variety. Sundried grapes are fermented until they reach about 5% alcohol by volume before being fortified to 14.5% alcohol by volume with the addition of grape spirit. The wine is then racked into French oak barrels and aged for a year. This is a dense sweet wine that shows aromas and flavours of redcurrant, blackcurrant, cherry, blueberry, coffee, hazelnut, toast, lilac, cinnamon and nutmeg. It makes a delicious companion for blue cheeses or desserts and does not pack the alcoholic punch of Port or French Vins Doux Naturels.