Founded in 1890 by a Bordeaux native, Bodegas Franco-Españolas represents a unique moment in Rioja's history—French winemaking expertise arriving to replant vineyards devastated by phylloxera. By 1970, the winery was wholly Spanish, yet the Bordeaux legacy lived in its classical approach. This Royal Reserva from that spectacular vintage embodies extended aging and wines that improve for decades. The year Rioja earned its official DO status—winemakers like Franco-Españolas proved Spanish wines could rival European greats.