The 2015 Ariana has increased the amount of Syrah to 40% since the last vintage I tasted, 2011. The rest is Listán Negro. The two grapes fermented separately in stainless steel and were blended before malolactic and six months aging in 500-liter oak casks. The Syrah seems to dominate the aromas and even the texture, coupled with the creamy, oaky notes. 26,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in July 2016.

The 2011 Ariana is a red blend of 70% Listan Negro and 30% Syrah. Very dark-colored, the nose is dominated by the notes of Syrah intermixed with oak, smoke, tar, black olives and cured meats. The palate reveals an easy-to-drink, balanced and pleasant red, with the alcohol and wood well-integrated and the Syrah flavors are softened by the Listan Negro. It is very drinkable, but more recognizable as a Syrah than a wine from the Canary Islands. Drink it now-2015. Bodegas El Grifo, located in Lanzarote, is a family-owned winery created in 1775, which makes it the oldest in the Canaries and one of the oldest in Spain. It’s one of the most popular wineries in the island and its bottles are easily recognizable by their logo – a half-eagle, half-lion bird designed by Cesar Manrique, the greatest local artist, designer and architect, responsible for making sure Lanzarote was not subjected to mass construction (among other things). They own 60 hectares of vineyards, 70% of which is Malvasia, 15% Listan Negro, 10% Syrah and 5% very old Moscatel. They produce 450,000 bottles annually. The wines are soundly made, with quite a nice commercial profile that would please many, and a good option as they are widely available on local restaurant lists. They also have a wine museum worth visiting. No known American importer.