La Rioja Alta : Gran Reserva 904 2001

Tasting characteristics and recommendations for La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 2001

Tasting

Appearance
The wine displays a medium ruby-red color, highlighted by brick hues that attest to its graceful evolution.

Nose
The bouquet is very intense, fresh, and vibrant. It reveals aromas of candied fruit accompanied by balsamic, spicy, and leathery notes. Hints of coffee and mint chocolate complete this complex aromatic palette.

Palate
On the palate, this wine captivates with its harmonious structure and roundness. Supple, polished tannins express themselves with elegance, delivering a broad, delicate, and persistent finish.

Food and wine pairing

This Gran Reserva 904 2001 pairs beautifully with grilled red meats, slow-cooked dishes with gentle spices, and aged cheeses. It also elevates contemplative tasting moments.

Serving and cellaring

Serve this Gran Reserva 904 2001 at 17°C (62.6°F) to fully reveal its aromas. As the wine underwent very light filtration, a natural sediment may form over time. Drink through around 2030.

An exceptional Gran Reserva from La Rioja with an intense and vibrant character

The estate

Founded in 1890 by five families, La Rioja Alta embodies the excellence of La Rioja. This historic estate stands out for crafting its own barrels in-house and produces wines in the crianza, reserva, and gran reserva styles. Ranked among the world’s most admired wineries, it has upheld traditional expertise for over a century.

The vineyard

The grapes for this Gran Reserva 904 2001 come from outstanding vineyards located in Rioja. The Tempranillo is sourced from vines over 40 years old planted in Briñas, Labastida, and Villalba, while the Graciano comes from the Melchorón I and II plots located in Briones and Rodezno.

The vintage

The year 2001 began with significant rainfall through April, followed by a drier spring and summer that favored optimal vine development. Old plots experienced reduced fruit set due to high temperatures, yielding smaller berries with a high skin-to-pulp ratio. Ripening progressed slowly and healthily, delivering an excellent balance between alcohol and acidity as well as a very fine color—ideal conditions for long aging.

Winemaking and aging

Alcoholic and malolactic fermentations proceeded smoothly. Gran Reserva 904 2001 was aged for four years in American oak barrels crafted by the estate, from February 2002 to May 2006. Rackings from barrel to barrel were carried out every six months before bottling in June 2006.

Grape varieties

Tempranillo (90%) and Graciano (10%).