2015 La Rioja Alta Viña Arana Gran Reserva Rioja
WINEMAKER: Julio Sáenz
REGION: Rioja, SP
VARIETY: Tempranillo, Graciano
VITICULTURE: Organic
The good weather throughout the cycle favoured an excellent vegetative and healthy state of the grapes. All of their components were balanced, especially in berries grown on the highest vineyards, in cooler areas and with moderate vigour. The resulting wines stand out for their elegant acidity, abundant fruit and well-balanced, silky tannins, making them ideal for ageing. Deep, dark crimson colour with an elegant garnet robe. The nose reveals a wide variety of aromas: red fruit, plums, blackberries and blueberries with subtle notes of pastry, coffee, caramel, cedar, vanilla and cinnamon creating a fruity and balsamic bouquet. Balanced alcohol and acidity on the palate, with polished, supple tannins that contribute to its refined structure and fresh, delicate mouthfeel, as well as a long, lingering finish.
La Rioja Alta is one of the guardians of traditional Rioja. The company was founded by merging vineyards of five local families in 1890 and these families are still in control of the company. La Rioja Alta and Lopez de Heredia are generally considered the last two houses remaining loyal to the classic profile of traditional Rioja.
Yet change and innovation have not been avoided. When methodical experimentation has shown that changes to viticulture and vinification can improve the wine, without sacrificing style or ageing potential, the winery has updated its techniques. Often these experiments will run for a decade before the results are deemed conclusive and a practice adopted.
La Rioja Alta’s philosophy is one of gradual, methodical evolution, guided by a belief that, despite their 125 year history, their greatest wines are yet to be made.