Tempranillo, Graciano
75cl * 12.5% ABV * Rioja, Spain
Formed by five families in the late 19th century, the La Rioja Alta S.A. winery is one of the most iconic names in Fine Wine, and a benchmark for the traditional style of Rioja. Their Tempranillo-led reds are aged for remarkably long periods in barrels, and they are one of the last remaining producers to rack their wines by hand and by candlelight – which they do every six months.
Medium-depth, ruby-red with a brick rim, typical of the great Rioja classics. Very intense, fresh, vibrant aromas, with delicate notes of candied fruit against a balsamic, spicy, leathery background with hints of coffee and chocolate mints. Well-structured and round, with sweet tannins that have been polished by long ageing in barrels and in the bottle. Ample, delicate, long-lasting finish. The wine for great moments.
We recommend decanting and serving at 17°C. Pair with main courses, all kinds of meats, stews but also desserts with chocolate toppings. Ideal as an after-dinner drink.
Drinking Window: Now - 2041
"Heady and rich. Gamey then dry. Very vibrant with strawberry fruit." 17/20 Points, Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, (July 2013)
"The 2001 Gran Reserva 904 will not be released for another 3 years. Dark ruby-colored with a garnet rim, it displays a lovely nose of Asian spices, incense, tobacco, balsamic, and blackberry. On the palate it has exceptional depth, layers of spicy black fruit, excellent ripeness, and an elegant personality. Upon release it should continue to evolve for another 5-6 years and drink well through 2040." 96/100 Points, Jay Miller, Wine Advocate (June 2010)
"The alluring aromas of vanilla, lilac and cedar give way to berry, vanilla and tobacco flavors in this expressive red. Features a supple texture, with firm underlying tannins, while balsamic acidity lends a spicy note to the finish." 91/100 Points, James Suckling, Winespectator