Description

"This vintage of La Rioja Alta’s 904 highlights its difference as a producer. A ‘good’ rated vintage didn’t stop this quality-conscious winery from producing a superb wine. With its 400ha of vines, La Rioja Alta is almost self-sufficient: unusual among Rioja producers. This blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano has seen four years in cask, and a few more in bottle prior to its release. The company imports American oak from Ohio and Pennsylvania, in order to supply the huge requirements of its in-house coopering operation.

Pedro Ballesteros Torres MW: An amazing, classic style with unique aromas, round tannins and a velvety texture, finishing suave and gorgeous.

Sarah Jane Evans MW: Gloriously smoky American oak. The palate is all about American oak too, but the blend of vanilla and berries is irresistible. Pierre Mansour: Lovely sweetness and vigour here, with the acidity supporting the mellow texture and fruit. A superb classic Rioja. Drink between 2018-2028."

95 Points

Decanter Magazine

La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 1997

£123.00

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DELIVERY & RETURNS

Taste Profile

Dry

Sweet

Light

Complex

Fresh

Oaked

Aromas + Flavours

Vanilla

Tobacco

Leather

Pairing Suggestions

Shepherd's Pie

Grilled Lamb

Steak

More Information

Attributes

Type: Fine WineRed Wine
Style: Savoury and Classic Red
Country: Spain
Region: Rioja
Blend: Tempranillo
Vintage: 1997
ABV: 14
Size: 75cl
Farming: Sustainable
Winemaking: Conventional
Vegan: Not certified

94 Points
RobertParker.com

La Rioja Alta

La Rioja Alta, an iconic Rioja producer, is celebrated for its exceptional red wines, particularly its Gran Reserva offerings. Founded in 1890 in Haro, Spain, this historic winery has been a benchmark for quality in the Rioja region. La Rioja Alta meticulously combines traditional winemaking methods with modern techniques, ageing their wines in American oak barrels crafted by their own coopers. Their Tempranillo-based wines are renowned for their elegance, complexity, and longevity. With a commitment to excellence and a deep respect for their heritage, La Rioja Alta continues to be a symbol of Rioja's rich winemaking tradition.

Rioja

Rioja, located in northern Spain, is one of the country’s most prestigious and renowned wine regions. The region benefits from a diverse climate with influences from both the Mediterranean and Atlantic, contributing to its varied wine styles.
Famous for its reds, primarily made from Tempranillo, which produce wines known for their depth, rich fruit flavours, and well-integrated oak characteristics, the region also produces notable blends incorporating Garnacha and Graciano. Rioja’s whites, including those from Viura and Malvasía, are celebrated for their freshness, aromatic complexity, and balanced acidity. Historically, Rioja has a winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times. The region gained prominence in the 19th century with the influence of French winemaking techniques, and today it is recognised for its commitment to both traditional and modern practices. Rioja's classification system, including Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva, reflects its dedication to quality and aging potential, making it a benchmark for Spanish wine.