The annual Rioja 2026 Special Report, compiled by British Master of Wine and wine expert Tim Atkin, once again places Rioja at the forefront of the most discerning international wine scene. In this essential reference for professionals and opinion leaders around the world, the Nivarius and Proelio wineries, both part of the Palacios Vinos de Finca project, stand out with outstanding scores and recognition that confirm the solidity of their viticultural and oenological work. Published in February 2026, the report is the result of months of tastings, vineyard visits and in-depth analysis of the Rioja region, with a clear focus on wines of origin, unique vineyards and projects that are redefining the present and future of the appellation.

In this context, the results obtained by Nivarius and Proelio reinforce a shared vision: to put the vineyard at the centre and faithfully express the most unique landscapes, varieties and altitudes of Rioja.

La Tejería de Nivarius, discovery of the year

The most notable recognition comes from La Tejería de Nivarius 2023, which has been named Discovery White Wines of the Year and scored 97 points, one of the highest scores in the report for white wines. This is a new wine from Viura, from the town of Elvillar, which will be released in May and has already established itself as a benchmark even before its launch.

La Tejería perfectly represents the Nivarius philosophy: reinterpreting the potential of Rioja's white varieties through freshness, altitude and absolute respect for the vineyard. This recognition not only endorses the quality of the wine, but also the winery's strategic commitment to unique vineyards and precise production methods that seek longevity, identity and emotion.

Valdesabril and the excellence of the unique vineyard

Alongside La Tejería, Nivarius Valdesabril 2023 has achieved 96 points and has been included by Tim Atkin among the Wines of the Year White in the Unique Vineyard category. This recognition highlights the exceptional character of this vineyard and Nivarius' ability to translate its uniqueness into wine.

Rounding out the winery's excellent results are Nivarius Limited Edition 2022 and Finca La Nevera 2021, both with 94 points, confirming a consistent and sustained line of work over time, where each wine is a concrete expression of place and variety.

Proelio and the strength of Garnacha red wines

In the red wine section, Proelio is once again among the standout names in the report. Proelio La Canal del Rojo Garnacha 2021 scored 96 points and was recognised as Wines of the Year Red in the Viñedo Singular category. This wine reflects the depth and tension of Grenache grown at altitude, made from an exceptional vineyard and clearly intended for ageing.

Adding to this result are Proelio Puerto Rubio 2022, with 94 points, and Proelio Finca La Esperilla 2020, with 92 points, consolidating the winery's position as one of the most consistent projects in the contemporary interpretation of great Rioja reds.

Second category in the Rioja 2026 classification

Beyond individual scores, the report places Bodegas Nivarius and Proelio among the Second Growths in Tim’s 2026 Rioja Classification. This classification, inspired by the great historical European models, recognises those wineries that stand out for the consistency of their wines, the quality of their vineyards and a clear and recognisable identity within the context of Rioja.

A cover that sums up a philosophy

Tim Atkin MW's 2026 report also includes an element that is particularly significant for Palacios Vinos de Finca: the cover features an image of the mass selection or variety garden, with the views of Peña Bajenza and Puerta de Camero Nuevo as a backdrop. This choice is no coincidence and symbolises a commitment to genetic diversity, precision viticulture and the deep link between landscape and wine. This image visually summarises the philosophy shared by Nivarius and Proelio: understanding Rioja through its vineyards, soils, altitudes and varietal richness, creating wines with their own identity and a vocation for the future. The recognition received in the Rioja 2026 Special Report is not a point of arrival, but rather an incentive to continue along this path.