La Rioja Alta S.A. '904 Seleccion Especial' Rioja Gran Reserva is an exquisite expression of Rioja winemaking, crafted by one of Spain's most iconic producers. Combining traditional methods with cutting-edge technology, La Rioja Alta, S.A. is renowned the world over for classically-styled Reserva and Gran Reserva wines, celebrated for their elegance, complexity and longevity. Grapes for this label are sourced from meticulously farmed vineyards in Rioja Alta, including notably the prestigious Montecillo vineyard, with a blend of predominantly Tempranillo and a touch of Graciano for structure. The estate's in-house coopers carefully craft American oak barrels using artisanal, time-honoured practices, with barrel ageing and manual racking by candlelight lending hallmark finesse and aromatic depth. A commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention ensures purity of fruit and an authentic reflection of terroir, resulting in a wine that receives consistent critical acclaim.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
This Gran Reserva pours a vibrant ruby red with subtle brick hues at the rim, hinting at the wine's sophisticated maturation.
Nose:
The bouquet is strikingly complex and refined, revealing waves of wild strawberry, red cherry and succulent plum, embroidered with enticing aromas of tobacco, vanilla and gentle brioche. Delicate undertones of cedarwood, spices and caramel unfold with time in the glass, contributing to a multilayered aromatic profile of remarkable intensity.
Palate:
On the palate, the wine is silky and elegantly textured, offering perfectly balanced fruit flavours underscored by notes of cinnamon blossom and a touch of coffee. Fine-grained tannins give structure, while vibrant acidity preserves freshness and poise, in true Rioja Alta style. Subtle hints of toasted oak and a touch of savoury complexity add depth to the opulent cherry and berry fruit core.
Finish:
The finish is exceptionally long, graceful and harmonious, echoing the wine's signature notes of red fruits, spices and cedar well after the last sip. With its refined tannins and persistent length, this Gran Reserva is both immediately captivating and supremely age-worthy.
