{"title":"La Rioja Alta S.A.","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-890-gran-reserva-rioja-6x750ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. 890 Gran Reserva 2011, Rioja, 6x750ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOne of the world’s great fine wines, and one of Rioja’s most recognisable and sought after labels, the \u003cb\u003eGran Reserva 890 is the epitome of La Rioja Alta’s traditional style\u003c\/b\u003e, named after their year of founding in 1890.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAt a lunch introducing the new releases, Guillermo de Aranzabal, President of La Rioja Alta, said that \u003cb\u003e\"if 904 is silk, 890 is velvet\"\u003c\/b\u003e and i would say this analogy is spot on. \u003cb\u003e904 is a softer, silkier wine that shows delicacy through its richness. 890 is a deeper, more concentrated, dark-fruited wine, more powerful but still possessing the effortless charm and velvety texture that the domaine are famous for.\u003c\/b\u003e It takes longer to really open up in the glass, and has the capacity to age even longer in the cellar. Released after spending 6 years in American oak and a further 8 years in bottle. Only the finest grapes make it into the cellar and only the very best barrels make it into the 890.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eOnly produced in the very best vintages – usually only 2 or 3 times each decade – and only using fruit from the finest plots in the best high-altitude vineyards\u003c\/b\u003e - barrels are regularly tasted by winemaker Julio Saenz and only those that possess the richness and concentration for very long term ageing make the cut into the 890. 2011 follows the great 2010, and, \u003cb\u003ehaving tasted both recently, i can vouch for the sheer brilliance of both vintages! \u003c\/b\u003e2010 was widely regarded as a great year in La Rioja, so it is easy to overlook 2011, but that would be a mistake. The 2011 sits comfortably up there with the very best wines the estate has produced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eN.B. This wine is not currently in stock but can be ordered, usually for delivery within a few weeks -  please email info@cellarselect.co.uk for availability and lead time, or it will be confirmed after an order is placed.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52624326164808,"sku":null,"price":780.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52624394060104,"sku":null,"price":780.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Pre-Arrival (In Bond - For Storage)","offer_id":52624394092872,"sku":null,"price":780.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAlta890_075ff90b-2864-470e-b7f7-9be733c43325.jpg?v=1769172891"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-890-gran-reserva-rioja-6x750ml-1","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. 890 Gran Reserva 2010, Rioja 6x750ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #196b24; mso-themecolor: accent3;\"\u003e\"\u003ci\u003eThis has to be one of the finest vintages for this wine. It's drinkable now but should also age for a very long time; it's intense, complex and elegant....This is a very intense 890. Classicism in a bottle.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e- Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003e \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOne of the world’s great fine wines, and one of Rioja’s most recognisable and sought after labels, the Gran Reserva 890 is La Rioja Alta’s top wine, and the epitome of their traditional style, named after their year of founding in 1890.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOnly produced in the very best vintages – usually only 2 or 3 times each decade – and only using fruit from the finest plots in the best high-altitude vineyards - 2010 is the first release since the 2005, and it looks to be the best wine produced in their nearly 140-year history. Barrels are regularly tasted by winemaker Julio Saenz and only those that possess the richness and concentration for very long term ageing make the cut into the 890.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2010 was an incredible vintage in La Rioja – only the 9\u003csup\u003eth\u003c\/sup\u003e vintage in the last 50 years that has been rated ‘Excelente’ by the Consejo Regulador of Rioja. At 14 years old this beauty is just beginning to drink well but has many decades ahead of it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52624326033736,"sku":null,"price":750.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52624393994568,"sku":null,"price":923.18,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAlta890.jpg?v=1769172653"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-904-gran-reserva-rioja-6x750ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. 904 Gran Reserva 2016, Rioja, 6x750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eFounded in 1890, La Rioja Alta S.A. is one of the most historical and prestigious wineries located on the Barrio de la Estacion in Haro, in the heart of Rioja. Renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition, the winery has become synonymous with excellence. Their Gran Reserva wines are the pinnacle of their winemaking, crafted from the finest grapes and aged for extended periods in barrel and bottle. La Rioja Alta’s Gran Reservas are characterized by their complexity, elegance, and depth of flavour, reflecting the unique terroir of the region and a meticulous aging process.\u003cbr\u003eToday sees the release of the 2016 Gran Reserva 904 (the 2011 Gran Reserva 890 will be released in early May – info on the 2011 below (just not the price, yet!) do let me know if you are likely to be interested.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2016 Gran Reserva 904 is an outstanding new addition with incredible depth and persistence. \u003cstrong\u003eA blend of 90% Tempranillo from a selection of estate-owned vineyards in Villalba, Briñas, and Rodezno with loamy, limestone soils, and 10% Graciano from the alluvial, gravelly soils of Montecillo estate in Fuenmayor.\u003c\/strong\u003e The wine is aged in American oak barrels, made by their own coopers, for 4 years and then bottled in May 2021 to continue ageing in bottle before release. The wine exhibits remarkable acidity-alcohol balance, high aromatic intensity, and excellent tannin maturity. The 2016 vintage was marked by a long and balanced growing season, with favourable weather conditions that led to a calm and steady harvest and excellent grape maturation. Abundant winter and spring rainfall ensured excellent soil water reserves with a cool spring delaying the start of the vegetative cycle. Summer was neither excessively hot or wet which allowed for slow and uniform ripening. Mild temperatures and absence of rain during harvest allowed for a staggered harvest of healthy grapes at their optimal ripeness. The 2016 wines exhibit vibrant acidity, fine tannins, and excellent aromatic expression, with moderate alcohol levels. ensuring great aging potential. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: aptos,sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;\"\u003eIn \u003cstrong\u003eVinous.com’s latest Spain report, 2016 La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 came in equal third place, with 97 points.\u003c\/strong\u003e This wine has long been one of the great bargains in fine wine, and the 2016 continues this tradition, available at a fraction of the price of its peers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52624325935432,"sku":null,"price":312.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52624393929032,"sku":null,"price":397.58,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAlta904.jpg?v=1769171850"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-904-gran-reserva-rioja-6x750ml-1","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. 904 Gran Reserva 2015, Rioja, 6x750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Rioja Alta’s 904 Gran Reserva is one of the fine wine world’s great bargains.\u003c\/strong\u003e Revered in fine wine circles since its incarnation in 1904, it has maintained its iconic status as one of Rioja’s very finest wines. Produced only 3 or 4 times per decade - only in the very best vintages – and only released when it has been carefully cellar-aged and tasted many times until deemed ready to start drinking – \u003cstrong\u003eat just over £50 In Bond (For Storage) per bottle, this is a collector’s dream!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eWhilst any vintage of 904 Gran Reserva is a wonderful wine, the \u003cstrong\u003e2015 is a particularly special vintage, as it is the first ever to be declared as a \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eSeleccion Especial\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e La Rioja Alta had previously only ever granted Seleccion Especial status to the greatest vintages of Vina Ardanza – the 1964, 1973, 2001 and 2010, and more recently they extended this to their top wine, the 890 Gran Reserva, for the 2001 and 2005. \u003cstrong\u003eFor now, the 2015 is the only Gran Reserva 904 Seleccion Especial and they believe it ranks up there with the greatest vintages of the past.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe 2015 is beginning to drink wonderfully, but I would actually advise holding this for another year or two, as whilst all the lovely balsamic, tobacco-ey, fruity and floral notes are there, it has a denser, more tannic structure than some recent vintages. Open it in 2-3 years and drink over the next 20 or more...or if you can't wait, decant it at breakfast to drink at dinner!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52624325804360,"sku":null,"price":310.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52624393797960,"sku":null,"price":395.98,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAlta904_39d319cb-398b-4c96-a6f9-0e562b38b903.jpg?v=1769172588"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-via-arana-gran-reserva-rioja-6x750ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Arana Gran Reserva 2016, Rioja, 6x750ml","description":"\u003ctable class=\"mcnTextBlock\" style=\"min-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" width=\"100%\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" border=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody class=\"mcnTextBlockOuter\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"mcnTextBlockInner\" style=\"padding-top: 9px; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"max-width: 100%; min-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" class=\"mcnTextContentContainer\" width=\"100%\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" border=\"0\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"mcnTextContent\" style=\"mso-line-height-rule: exactly; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-break: break-word; color: #757575; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 150%; text-align: left; padding: 0 18px 9px 18px;\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #008000;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eQuite simply, these are some of the finest Riojas that can grace your cellar: complex, refined, classic but without compromising fruit intensity and to reiterate: wines that speak about where they come from.”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNeal Martin, Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e“Great Rioja, as traditional as it gets, in good quantity and moderate (and often plain great) prices.”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLuis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e“Old fashioned Rioja at its glorious best”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTim Atkin MW\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" width=\"100%\" class=\"mcnTextBlock\" style=\"min-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody class=\"mcnTextBlockOuter\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd valign=\"top\" class=\"mcnTextBlockInner\" style=\"padding-top: 9px; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\"\u003e\n\u003ctable align=\"left\" border=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" style=\"max-width: 100%; min-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" width=\"100%\" class=\"mcnTextContentContainer\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd valign=\"top\" class=\"mcnTextContent\" style=\"mso-line-height-rule: exactly; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-break: break-word; color: #757575; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 150%; text-align: left; padding: 0 18px 9px 18px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eWhilst the label Vina Arana has existed since 1974, it was always bottled as a Reserva - the 2016 is only the fourth vintage in which it has been bottled as a Gran Reserva, having earnt its place alongside the estate’s other two Gran Reservas, the 904 and the 890. In La Rioja, a Reserva must be aged for 3 years, with at least one of those in barrel, whilst a Gran Reserva must spend at least 3 out of 5 years in a barrel before release.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2016 is a wonderful vintage all across Europe, and with such perfect conditions in La Rioja, Bodegas La Rioja Alta plan to bottle all of their top cuvees from 2016 – Vina Ardanza Reserva was released earlier this year, and they will release both the iconic Gran Reserva 904 and the legendary Gran Reserva 890 from 2016.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe makeup of the wine has changed from the original Vina Arana, changing the 5% of Mazuelo for Graciano. The Graciano gives the wine an aromatic intensity and acidity, which carries the structure and elegance of the Tempranillo. This great vintage of Viña Arana Gran Reserva comes from 40 year-old vineyards in Las Cuevas, El Palo and Las Monjas in Rodezno and Montecillo estate in Fuenmayor. The grapes are vinified separately in American oak for 3 years, and racked as few times as possible. The wine has real aging potential.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eOnly Tim Atkin has scored the 2016 so far, but Luis Gutierrez scored the Vina Ardanza 2016 at 94+ points, versus 94 for the 2015 Ardanza, saying he felt the 2016 was fresher and less developed. The \u003cstrong\u003e2015 and 2014 Vina Aranas won Gold and Platinum medals at Decanter’s World Wine Awards and the highly respected Guia Penin gave them 95 and 96 points.\u003c\/strong\u003e Spanish experts Tim Atkin, Simon Field MW and Sarah Jane Evans have all reported on the wine’s impressively long finish and gorgeous freshness, whilst Will Lyons (Sunday Times) Matthew Jukes, and Johnny Ray (The Spectator) have all been wowed by the wine’s superb value.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI tasted this wine a few months ago and it was absolutely delicious, with everything you would expect from this superb Rioja domaine! The nose is rich and inviting with notes of wild strawberries and violets, as well as blackberry, toffee, cocoa powder and hints of vanilla. On the palate it is intense and incredibly well focused with layers of red and black fruits and the cocoa and vanilla notes from the nose. It combines an almost explosive richness with a silky, soft finish, the tannins melting into the mouth, leaving you wanting another sip. Softening over 48 hours, this was a real treat. Amazingly, i think it is a step up on the 2015 - it is richer, and more concentrated, but has the same superb length. Highly recommended, and whilst it is delicious now, it will only get better over the next 20+ years!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt well under £200 In Bond (Ex-Duty \u0026amp; VAT) per 6, this remains another of the great bargains of the Fine Wine World.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52624325640520,"sku":null,"price":170.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52624393732424,"sku":null,"price":227.98,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAltaArana2016square_jpg_512cdd1d-88a1-4975-85eb-2e5d60ec30ad.png?v=1769099073"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-via-arana-gran-reserva-rioja-magnums-6x1500ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Arana Gran Reserva 2016, Rioja, 6x1500ml","description":"\u003ctable class=\"mcnTextBlock\" style=\"min-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" width=\"100%\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" border=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody class=\"mcnTextBlockOuter\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"mcnTextBlockInner\" style=\"padding-top: 9px; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"max-width: 100%; min-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" class=\"mcnTextContentContainer\" width=\"100%\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" border=\"0\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"mcnTextContent\" style=\"mso-line-height-rule: exactly; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-break: break-word; color: #757575; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 150%; text-align: left; padding: 0 18px 9px 18px;\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #008000;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eQuite simply, these are some of the finest Riojas that can grace your cellar: complex, refined, classic but without compromising fruit intensity and to reiterate: wines that speak about where they come from.”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNeal Martin, Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e“Great Rioja, as traditional as it gets, in good quantity and moderate (and often plain great) prices.”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLuis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e“Old fashioned Rioja at its glorious best”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTim Atkin MW\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" width=\"100%\" class=\"mcnTextBlock\" style=\"min-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody class=\"mcnTextBlockOuter\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd valign=\"top\" class=\"mcnTextBlockInner\" style=\"padding-top: 9px; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\"\u003e\n\u003ctable align=\"left\" border=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" style=\"max-width: 100%; min-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" width=\"100%\" class=\"mcnTextContentContainer\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd valign=\"top\" class=\"mcnTextContent\" style=\"mso-line-height-rule: exactly; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-break: break-word; color: #757575; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 150%; text-align: left; padding: 0 18px 9px 18px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eWhilst the label Vina Arana has existed since 1974, it was always bottled as a Reserva - the 2016 is only the fourth vintage in which it has been bottled as a Gran Reserva, having earnt its place alongside the estate’s other two Gran Reservas, the 904 and the 890. In La Rioja, a Reserva must be aged for 3 years, with at least one of those in barrel, whilst a Gran Reserva must spend at least 3 out of 5 years in a barrel before release.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2016 is a wonderful vintage all across Europe, and with such perfect conditions in La Rioja, Bodegas La Rioja Alta plan to bottle all of their top cuvees from 2016 – Vina Ardanza Reserva was released earlier this year, and they will release both the iconic Gran Reserva 904 and the legendary Gran Reserva 890 from 2016.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe makeup of the wine has changed from the original Vina Arana, changing the 5% of Mazuelo for Graciano. The Graciano gives the wine an aromatic intensity and acidity, which carries the structure and elegance of the Tempranillo. This great vintage of Viña Arana Gran Reserva comes from 40 year-old vineyards in Las Cuevas, El Palo and Las Monjas in Rodezno and Montecillo estate in Fuenmayor. The grapes are vinified separately in American oak for 3 years, and racked as few times as possible. The wine has real aging potential.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eOnly Tim Atkin has scored the 2016 so far, but Luis Gutierrez scored the Vina Ardanza 2016 at 94+ points, versus 94 for the 2015 Ardanza, saying he felt the 2016 was fresher and less developed. The \u003cstrong\u003e2015 and 2014 Vina Aranas won Gold and Platinum medals at Decanter’s World Wine Awards and the highly respected Guia Penin gave them 95 and 96 points.\u003c\/strong\u003e Spanish experts Tim Atkin, Simon Field MW and Sarah Jane Evans have all reported on the wine’s impressively long finish and gorgeous freshness, whilst Will Lyons (Sunday Times) Matthew Jukes, and Johnny Ray (The Spectator) have all been wowed by the wine’s superb value.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI tasted this wine a few months ago and it was absolutely delicious, with everything you would expect from this superb Rioja domaine! The nose is rich and inviting with notes of wild strawberries and violets, as well as blackberry, toffee, cocoa powder and hints of vanilla. On the palate it is intense and incredibly well focused with layers of red and black fruits and the cocoa and vanilla notes from the nose. It combines an almost explosive richness with a silky, soft finish, the tannins melting into the mouth, leaving you wanting another sip. Softening over 48 hours, this was a real treat. Amazingly, i think it is a step up on the 2015 - it is richer, and more concentrated, but has the same superb length. Highly recommended, and whilst it is delicious now, it will only get better over the next 20+ years!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt well under £200 In Bond (Ex-Duty \u0026amp; VAT) per 6, this remains another of the great bargains of the Fine Wine World.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52624325542216,"sku":null,"price":360.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52624393666888,"sku":null,"price":479.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAltaArana2016square_jpg.png?v=1769099066"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-via-ardanza-reserva-rioja-6x750ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Ardanza Reserva 2019, Rioja, 6x750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eWhen Ardanza was \u003cstrong\u003efirst made back in 1942, it was labelled as a ‘Burgundy style wine’\u003c\/strong\u003e and put in the now iconic Burgundy bottle. The 2019 shows all the elegance and finesse for which Ardanza is renown, with lifted floral notes, classic spices and beautifully silky tannins.  In the words of winemaker Julio Sáenz \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e“An exceptional vintage, one of the best in our history, concluding an extraordinary decade for Viña Ardanza. This wine offers great complexity and aging potential. I believe it is the Viña Ardanza that will improve the most in the coming years.”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA blend of over \u003cstrong\u003e30 year old Tempranillo (80%)\u003c\/strong\u003e grown on steep high altitude clay-limestone soils in La Cuesta (Fuenmayor) and Montecillo (Cenicero), and \u003cstrong\u003e17 year old Garnacha (20%)\u003c\/strong\u003e grown at 550 metres above sea-level in deep pebble-rich terrains in La Pedriza (Tudelilla-Rioja Oriental). This Garnacha is the key to Ardanza’s structure, aromatics, and concentration: these vines are actually higher in altitude than most of the Rioja Alta subzone, and sit on barren, free-draining soils made up with large \u003cstrong\u003epudding-stones similar to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.\u003c\/strong\u003e The area is perfectly situated to grow the finest Garnacha. These two varieties are harvested and vinified separately, ageing around three years in American oak barrels which are produced in-house by La Rioja Alta S.A.’s own cooperage. Every berry that goes into Ardanza now goes through an optical selection process to ensure the highest quality product is made. The two grapes are then matured separately in American oak (Tempranillo 36 months, and the Garnacha for 30 months). During the maturation, the wine is racked by hand and by candlelight; La Rioja Alta S.A. are one of the handful of producers still to use this traditional technique in Rioja which ensure supple tannins and the savoury flavours that so defines their style.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt is interesting to note that the wine is aged long enough to qualify as a Gran Reserva, but as La Rioja Alta already have three Gran Reservas, and in order to keep the wine at this price point, it is labelled as a Reserva.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eJosh Raynolds of Vinous.com wrote recently: \u003cem\u003e“One of Rioja’s most famed bodegas, this 300-hectare estate was established in the heart of Haro in 1890. All of the vineyards are in Rioja Alta, unsurprising given the name. La Rioja Alta has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the region’s best, most traditionally made wines, across the range. \u003cstrong\u003eSolid value is the rule here, from top to bottom. The entry-level wines are among Rioja’s best values.\u003c\/strong\u003e American oak is used exclusively, and its influence on the wines can be marked, even with age. While that style isn’t everybody’s cup of tea, \u003cstrong\u003eTempranillo fans of the old Rioja school, and there are plenty of them, are loyal followers of the estate with good reason.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wonderful thing about Rioja, of course, is that it has already been matured for us and is ready to drink on arrival, without the need for extended cellaring, though it still has the ability to age for many more years and it doesn’t shut down like Pinot Noir or Cabernet-based wines, so you can drink this now, or in 10 years, or more!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52624325443912,"sku":null,"price":120.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52624393634120,"sku":null,"price":167.98,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAltaArdanza.jpg?v=1769098605"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-via-ardanza-reserva-rioja-magnums-6x1500ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Ardanza Reserva 2004, Rioja, 6x1500ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eFounded in 1890, La Rioja Alta S.A. is one of the most historical and prestigious wineries located on the Barrio de la Estacion in Haro, in the heart of Rioja. Renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition, the winery has become synonymous with excellence. Their Gran Reserva wines are the pinnacle of their winemaking, crafted from the finest grapes and aged for extended periods in barrel and bottle. La Rioja Alta’s Gran Reservas are characterized by their complexity, elegance, and depth of flavour, reflecting the unique terroir of the region and a meticulous aging process.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e2004 was a superb vintage in La Rioja, rated 'Excelente' and the highest possible 5 stars from the Rioja Consejo.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52624325181768,"sku":null,"price":480.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52624393437512,"sku":null,"price":619.06,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAltaArdanza2004.jpg?v=1769098699"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-vina-ardanza-reserva-2020-rioja-6x750ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Ardanza Reserva 2020, Rioja, 6x750ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/Ardanza.png?v=1774019165\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eViña Ardanza Reserva\u003c\/b\u003e from La Rioja Alta is a remarkable wine for its consistency and its quality. Yet each year it feels like there is a gradual step forward in the detail and finesse from this great producer. The latest \u003cstrong\u003e2020 vintage is joyful, modern and not shy about its approachability; yet also reveals a core of dark cherry fruit, framed in sinewy tannins that suggests a broad drinking window.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e2020 vintage is a growing season graded as ‘Very Good’\u003c\/strong\u003e by the Consejo Regulador DOCa Rioja. Spring was wet and with the rainfall there came mildew pressure early in the season, as well as some localised hailstorms; both of which had an impact on yields. Summer was dry but not too hot, a little rain here and there to refresh the vines. The resulting wines are well balanced, fresh and fruit forward yet with a solid structure and aromatic complexity from the long growing season. Julio Sáenz, winemaker at La Rioja Alta, compares 2020 with 2012 and 2016, three hot years that benefited from the cooling effect of the rain that fell at the end of September.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThis is a classic blend of \u003cstrong\u003e80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha\u003c\/strong\u003e from the estate’s own vineyards before ageing in \u003cstrong\u003eAmerican oak (around 20% first use)\u003c\/strong\u003e managed by the estate’s own cooperage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Ardanza 2020 scores a fabulous \u003cb\u003e94 points\u003c\/b\u003e from \u003cb\u003eLuis Gutiérrez \u003c\/b\u003eof\u003cb\u003e The Wine Advocate\u003c\/b\u003e who writes that this is \u003ci\u003e‘a textbook example of the label, with the perfume and elegance of the Garnacha and the clout from Tempranillo’\u003c\/i\u003e. He concludes: \u003ci\u003e‘it's balanced, seamless and well-built, and its tannins are mostly resolved. It should live long in bottle.’\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThis is the same Wine Advocate score as the 2019, but the 2020 is a very different wine. 2019 is structured and dense, spicy and powerful, whilst the 2020 is more lifted, perfumed, more open for business at this stage, but on the palate it is rich and complex, with, as Luis Gutierrez says: \u003ci\u003e“the perfume and elegance of the Garnacha and the clout from Tempranillo.” \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eWith notes of incense, tobacco and dried coconut on the nose, leading to glossy cherry and strawberry fruit on the palate, it is so approachable, with superbly integrated tannins that frame the palate but stay soft and silky, amplifying the fruit flavours, and it seems to keep developing long after swallowing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eWhen Ardanza was \u003cstrong\u003efirst made back in 1942, it was labelled as a ‘Burgundy style wine’\u003c\/strong\u003e and put in the now iconic Burgundy bottle. The 2019 shows all the elegance and finesse for which Ardanza is renown, with lifted floral notes, classic spices and beautifully silky tannins. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA blend of over \u003cstrong\u003e30 year old Tempranillo (80%)\u003c\/strong\u003e grown on steep high altitude clay-limestone soils in La Cuesta (Fuenmayor) and Montecillo (Cenicero), and \u003cstrong\u003e17 year old Garnacha (20%)\u003c\/strong\u003e grown at 550 metres above sea-level in deep pebble-rich terrains in La Pedriza (Tudelilla-Rioja Oriental). This Garnacha is the key to Ardanza’s structure, aromatics, and concentration: these vines are actually higher in altitude than most of the Rioja Alta subzone, and sit on barren, free-draining soils made up with large \u003cstrong\u003epudding-stones similar to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.\u003c\/strong\u003e The area is perfectly situated to grow the finest Garnacha. These two varieties are harvested and vinified separately, ageing around three years in American oak barrels which are produced in-house by La Rioja Alta S.A.’s own cooperage. Every berry that goes into Ardanza now goes through an optical selection process to ensure the highest quality product is made. The two grapes are then matured separately in American oak (Tempranillo 36 months, and the Garnacha for 30 months). During the maturation, the wine is racked by hand and by candlelight; La Rioja Alta S.A. are one of the handful of producers still to use this traditional technique in Rioja which ensure supple tannins and the savoury flavours that so defines their style.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt is interesting to note that the wine is aged long enough to qualify as a Gran Reserva, but as La Rioja Alta already have three Gran Reservas, and in order to keep the wine at this price point, it is labelled as a Reserva.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eJosh Raynolds of Vinous.com wrote recently: \u003cem\u003e“One of Rioja’s most famed bodegas, this 300-hectare estate was established in the heart of Haro in 1890. All of the vineyards are in Rioja Alta, unsurprising given the name. La Rioja Alta has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the region’s best, most traditionally made wines, across the range. \u003cstrong\u003eSolid value is the rule here, from top to bottom. The entry-level wines are among Rioja’s best values.\u003c\/strong\u003e American oak is used exclusively, and its influence on the wines can be marked, even with age. While that style isn’t everybody’s cup of tea, \u003cstrong\u003eTempranillo fans of the old Rioja school, and there are plenty of them, are loyal followers of the estate with good reason.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wonderful thing about Rioja, of course, is that it has already been matured for us and is ready to drink on arrival, without the need for extended cellaring, though it still has the ability to age for many more years and it doesn’t shut down like Pinot Noir or Cabernet-based wines, so you can drink this now, or in 10 years, or more!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping from Spain in July 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52718982725960,"sku":null,"price":129.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52718982758728,"sku":null,"price":129.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Pre-Arrival (In Bond)","offer_id":52719029092680,"sku":null,"price":129.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAltaArdanza.jpg?v=1769098605"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-vina-ardanza-reserva-2020-rioja-3x500ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Ardanza Reserva 2020, Rioja, 3x1500ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/Ardanza.png?v=1774019165\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eViña Ardanza Reserva\u003c\/b\u003e from La Rioja Alta is a remarkable wine for its consistency and its quality. Yet each year it feels like there is a gradual step forward in the detail and finesse from this great producer. The latest \u003cstrong\u003e2020 vintage is joyful, modern and not shy about its approachability; yet also reveals a core of dark cherry fruit, framed in sinewy tannins that suggests a broad drinking window.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e2020 vintage is a growing season graded as ‘Very Good’\u003c\/strong\u003e by the Consejo Regulador DOCa Rioja. Spring was wet and with the rainfall there came mildew pressure early in the season, as well as some localised hailstorms; both of which had an impact on yields. Summer was dry but not too hot, a little rain here and there to refresh the vines. The resulting wines are well balanced, fresh and fruit forward yet with a solid structure and aromatic complexity from the long growing season. Julio Sáenz, winemaker at La Rioja Alta, compares 2020 with 2012 and 2016, three hot years that benefited from the cooling effect of the rain that fell at the end of September.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThis is a classic blend of \u003cstrong\u003e80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha\u003c\/strong\u003e from the estate’s own vineyards before ageing in \u003cstrong\u003eAmerican oak (around 20% first use)\u003c\/strong\u003e managed by the estate’s own cooperage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Ardanza 2020 scores a fabulous \u003cb\u003e94 points\u003c\/b\u003e from \u003cb\u003eLuis Gutiérrez \u003c\/b\u003eof\u003cb\u003e The Wine Advocate\u003c\/b\u003e who writes that this is \u003ci\u003e‘a textbook example of the label, with the perfume and elegance of the Garnacha and the clout from Tempranillo’\u003c\/i\u003e. He concludes: \u003ci\u003e‘it's balanced, seamless and well-built, and its tannins are mostly resolved. It should live long in bottle.’\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThis is the same Wine Advocate score as the 2019, but the 2020 is a very different wine. 2019 is structured and dense, spicy and powerful, whilst the 2020 is more lifted, perfumed, more open for business at this stage, but on the palate it is rich and complex, with, as Luis Gutierrez says: \u003ci\u003e“the perfume and elegance of the Garnacha and the clout from Tempranillo.” \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eWith notes of incense, tobacco and dried coconut on the nose, leading to glossy cherry and strawberry fruit on the palate, it is so approachable, with superbly integrated tannins that frame the palate but stay soft and silky, amplifying the fruit flavours, and it seems to keep developing long after swallowing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eWhen Ardanza was \u003cstrong\u003efirst made back in 1942, it was labelled as a ‘Burgundy style wine’\u003c\/strong\u003e and put in the now iconic Burgundy bottle. The 2019 shows all the elegance and finesse for which Ardanza is renown, with lifted floral notes, classic spices and beautifully silky tannins. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA blend of over \u003cstrong\u003e30 year old Tempranillo (80%)\u003c\/strong\u003e grown on steep high altitude clay-limestone soils in La Cuesta (Fuenmayor) and Montecillo (Cenicero), and \u003cstrong\u003e17 year old Garnacha (20%)\u003c\/strong\u003e grown at 550 metres above sea-level in deep pebble-rich terrains in La Pedriza (Tudelilla-Rioja Oriental). This Garnacha is the key to Ardanza’s structure, aromatics, and concentration: these vines are actually higher in altitude than most of the Rioja Alta subzone, and sit on barren, free-draining soils made up with large \u003cstrong\u003epudding-stones similar to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.\u003c\/strong\u003e The area is perfectly situated to grow the finest Garnacha. These two varieties are harvested and vinified separately, ageing around three years in American oak barrels which are produced in-house by La Rioja Alta S.A.’s own cooperage. Every berry that goes into Ardanza now goes through an optical selection process to ensure the highest quality product is made. The two grapes are then matured separately in American oak (Tempranillo 36 months, and the Garnacha for 30 months). During the maturation, the wine is racked by hand and by candlelight; La Rioja Alta S.A. are one of the handful of producers still to use this traditional technique in Rioja which ensure supple tannins and the savoury flavours that so defines their style.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt is interesting to note that the wine is aged long enough to qualify as a Gran Reserva, but as La Rioja Alta already have three Gran Reservas, and in order to keep the wine at this price point, it is labelled as a Reserva.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eJosh Raynolds of Vinous.com wrote recently: \u003cem\u003e“One of Rioja’s most famed bodegas, this 300-hectare estate was established in the heart of Haro in 1890. All of the vineyards are in Rioja Alta, unsurprising given the name. La Rioja Alta has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the region’s best, most traditionally made wines, across the range. \u003cstrong\u003eSolid value is the rule here, from top to bottom. The entry-level wines are among Rioja’s best values.\u003c\/strong\u003e American oak is used exclusively, and its influence on the wines can be marked, even with age. While that style isn’t everybody’s cup of tea, \u003cstrong\u003eTempranillo fans of the old Rioja school, and there are plenty of them, are loyal followers of the estate with good reason.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wonderful thing about Rioja, of course, is that it has already been matured for us and is ready to drink on arrival, without the need for extended cellaring, though it still has the ability to age for many more years and it doesn’t shut down like Pinot Noir or Cabernet-based wines, so you can drink this now, or in 10 years, or more!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping from Spain in July 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52719030468936,"sku":null,"price":135.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52719030501704,"sku":null,"price":135.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Pre-Arrival (In Bond)","offer_id":52719030534472,"sku":null,"price":135.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAltaArdanza.jpg?v=1769098605"},{"product_id":"la-rioja-alta-s-a-vina-ardanza-reserva-2020-rioja-1x3000ml","title":"La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Ardanza Reserva 2020, Rioja, 1x3000ml","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/Ardanza.png?v=1774019165\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eViña Ardanza Reserva\u003c\/b\u003e from La Rioja Alta is a remarkable wine for its consistency and its quality. Yet each year it feels like there is a gradual step forward in the detail and finesse from this great producer. The latest \u003cstrong\u003e2020 vintage is joyful, modern and not shy about its approachability; yet also reveals a core of dark cherry fruit, framed in sinewy tannins that suggests a broad drinking window.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e2020 vintage is a growing season graded as ‘Very Good’\u003c\/strong\u003e by the Consejo Regulador DOCa Rioja. Spring was wet and with the rainfall there came mildew pressure early in the season, as well as some localised hailstorms; both of which had an impact on yields. Summer was dry but not too hot, a little rain here and there to refresh the vines. The resulting wines are well balanced, fresh and fruit forward yet with a solid structure and aromatic complexity from the long growing season. Julio Sáenz, winemaker at La Rioja Alta, compares 2020 with 2012 and 2016, three hot years that benefited from the cooling effect of the rain that fell at the end of September.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThis is a classic blend of \u003cstrong\u003e80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha\u003c\/strong\u003e from the estate’s own vineyards before ageing in \u003cstrong\u003eAmerican oak (around 20% first use)\u003c\/strong\u003e managed by the estate’s own cooperage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Ardanza 2020 scores a fabulous \u003cb\u003e94 points\u003c\/b\u003e from \u003cb\u003eLuis Gutiérrez \u003c\/b\u003eof\u003cb\u003e The Wine Advocate\u003c\/b\u003e who writes that this is \u003ci\u003e‘a textbook example of the label, with the perfume and elegance of the Garnacha and the clout from Tempranillo’\u003c\/i\u003e. He concludes: \u003ci\u003e‘it's balanced, seamless and well-built, and its tannins are mostly resolved. It should live long in bottle.’\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThis is the same Wine Advocate score as the 2019, but the 2020 is a very different wine. 2019 is structured and dense, spicy and powerful, whilst the 2020 is more lifted, perfumed, more open for business at this stage, but on the palate it is rich and complex, with, as Luis Gutierrez says: \u003ci\u003e“the perfume and elegance of the Garnacha and the clout from Tempranillo.” \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eWith notes of incense, tobacco and dried coconut on the nose, leading to glossy cherry and strawberry fruit on the palate, it is so approachable, with superbly integrated tannins that frame the palate but stay soft and silky, amplifying the fruit flavours, and it seems to keep developing long after swallowing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eWhen Ardanza was \u003cstrong\u003efirst made back in 1942, it was labelled as a ‘Burgundy style wine’\u003c\/strong\u003e and put in the now iconic Burgundy bottle. The 2019 shows all the elegance and finesse for which Ardanza is renown, with lifted floral notes, classic spices and beautifully silky tannins. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA blend of over \u003cstrong\u003e30 year old Tempranillo (80%)\u003c\/strong\u003e grown on steep high altitude clay-limestone soils in La Cuesta (Fuenmayor) and Montecillo (Cenicero), and \u003cstrong\u003e17 year old Garnacha (20%)\u003c\/strong\u003e grown at 550 metres above sea-level in deep pebble-rich terrains in La Pedriza (Tudelilla-Rioja Oriental). This Garnacha is the key to Ardanza’s structure, aromatics, and concentration: these vines are actually higher in altitude than most of the Rioja Alta subzone, and sit on barren, free-draining soils made up with large \u003cstrong\u003epudding-stones similar to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.\u003c\/strong\u003e The area is perfectly situated to grow the finest Garnacha. These two varieties are harvested and vinified separately, ageing around three years in American oak barrels which are produced in-house by La Rioja Alta S.A.’s own cooperage. Every berry that goes into Ardanza now goes through an optical selection process to ensure the highest quality product is made. The two grapes are then matured separately in American oak (Tempranillo 36 months, and the Garnacha for 30 months). During the maturation, the wine is racked by hand and by candlelight; La Rioja Alta S.A. are one of the handful of producers still to use this traditional technique in Rioja which ensure supple tannins and the savoury flavours that so defines their style.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt is interesting to note that the wine is aged long enough to qualify as a Gran Reserva, but as La Rioja Alta already have three Gran Reservas, and in order to keep the wine at this price point, it is labelled as a Reserva.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eJosh Raynolds of Vinous.com wrote recently: \u003cem\u003e“One of Rioja’s most famed bodegas, this 300-hectare estate was established in the heart of Haro in 1890. All of the vineyards are in Rioja Alta, unsurprising given the name. La Rioja Alta has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the region’s best, most traditionally made wines, across the range. \u003cstrong\u003eSolid value is the rule here, from top to bottom. The entry-level wines are among Rioja’s best values.\u003c\/strong\u003e American oak is used exclusively, and its influence on the wines can be marked, even with age. While that style isn’t everybody’s cup of tea, \u003cstrong\u003eTempranillo fans of the old Rioja school, and there are plenty of them, are loyal followers of the estate with good reason.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wonderful thing about Rioja, of course, is that it has already been matured for us and is ready to drink on arrival, without the need for extended cellaring, though it still has the ability to age for many more years and it doesn’t shut down like Pinot Noir or Cabernet-based wines, so you can drink this now, or in 10 years, or more!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping from Spain in July 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Cellar Select","offers":[{"title":"In Bond (For Storage)","offer_id":52719037579592,"sku":null,"price":125.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Duty Paid inc VAT (For UK Delivery)","offer_id":52719037612360,"sku":null,"price":125.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Pre-Arrival (In Bond)","offer_id":52719037645128,"sku":null,"price":125.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0936\/7391\/4696\/files\/LaRiojaAltaArdanza.jpg?v=1769098605"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.cellarselect.co.uk\/collections\/la-rioja-alta.oembed","provider":"Cellar Select","version":"1.0","type":"link"}