La Rioja Alta S.A. 'Gran Reserva 904' Selección Especial Red Blend, Rioja DOCa, Spain

La Rioja Alta S.A.'s 'Gran Reserva 904' Red Blend, Rioja DOCa, Spain, captivates with its elegance and history, embodying the timeless character of the Rioja region. Crafted from meticulously sourced Tempranillo and Graciano, this wine represents the epitome of traditional winemaking paired with innovative techniques like optical sorting. The result is a balanced, age-worthy wine with unmatched refinement and depth.

Product Details:

• Blend: 90% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano
• Harvest: Tempranillo harvested first, followed by Graciano 23 days later
• Fermentation: Alcoholic fermentation for 21 days in tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation
• Aging: 4 years in American oak barrels made in-house (average barrel age 4.5 years), with traditional manual rackings every 6 months
• Bottling Date: February 2020
• First Vintage with Optical Sorting: Yes, labeled as "Selección Especial"
• Alcohol Content: 13.2% ABV
• Production: 12,500 cases made, 3,200 cases imported

Sensory Description:

The wine reveals a medium-high robe with an elegant garnet hue and a delicate rim. Aromatically complex, it offers a symphony of wild strawberry, red cherry, blackberry, plum, and cranberry, intertwined with layers of tobacco, brioche, cedar, caramel, and cinnamon blossom. The palate is refined, with perfectly integrated alcohol and acidity, silky tannins, and a lingering finish. The balance and fresh character of this vintage promise exceptional cellaring potential, evolving beautifully over the years.

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 1890 by Riojan and Basque families, La Rioja Alta S.A. is an enduring symbol of Rioja’s viticultural heritage. The estate spans 400 hectares in the region, predominantly planted with Tempranillo alongside Graciano, Garnacha, and Mazuelo. Known for its traditional methods, the winery employs in-house coopers to craft American oak barrels and emphasizes precision and quality in every stage of production. The "Gran Reserva 904" was first produced in 1904 and stands as a testament to the winery's legacy and innovation, representing a harmonious balance of heritage and modernity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve at 60–65°F for optimal enjoyment. Pair with grilled meats, game, or richly flavored fish dishes. Its complexity also complements earthy mushroom risottos and hard cheeses. For a decadent pairing, enjoy with dark chocolate desserts or as a contemplative after-dinner wine. Perfect for celebratory moments or quiet reflections, this wine shines in any setting.