La Rioja Alta Vina Ardanza Reserva Spanish Red Wine 750 mL

$42.99

Ratings: James Suckling 96 Decanter 94 Robert Parker 94

94 rating Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
“Garnacha is an important component in the  Viña Ardanza Reserva, where it represents 20% of the blend (the rest is, of course, Tempranillo). The wine is a prototype of polished and aged Rioja with a ruby color with some orange and a developed nose with subtle aromas of decayed leaves, sweet spices and some cherries in liqueur even, quite complex and harmonious. The palate is velvety but rich, with resolved tannins and a fine chalky mouthfeel, sleek and elegant, terribly balanced. The flavors are pure and defined, and there is an overall sense of harmony that I like very much. Brilliant Ardanza!” Luis Gutierrez

Description

La Rioja Alta, one of the classical wineries in the Barrio de la Estación in Haro, has started converting ten hectares of their vineyard to organic farming, which is a welcomed move. But it’s only a small step that I hope they continue and accelerate, as they own some 420 hectares of vineyards that are the only source for their approximately 1.4 million bottles. The wines are classical Rioja, with plenty of spicy oak, very recognizable. They are currently releasing wines from some very good vintages, like 2010 and 2005.

Garnet red, medium-high depth, with an elegant palate. The nose stands out for its power, a highly-complex blend of spicy and balsamic aromas of sweet licorice, patisserie, vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa, coffee and nutmeg, and notes of stewed red fruits. Outstanding balance, pleasant freshness and great structure in the mouth, with supple, round tannins. Very pleasant mouthfeel. An ample aftertaste of spicy notes, sweet licorice and ripe fruit makes this a timeless wine, with tremendous laying-down potential.

Pair with roast lamb, red meats, barbeques, large game, spicy fish casseroles and smoked and aged cheeses.

Blend: 78% Tempranillo, 22% Garnacha

Additional information

Weight 48 oz
Dimensions 5 × 5 × 17 in