This afternoon we are pleased to offer the new release from La Rioja Alta, the 2016 Gran Reserva 904.  This Gran Reserva is a benchmark not just for the bodega but for the whole region of Rioja.  

The 904 Gran Reserva takes its name from the 1904 merger of La Rioja Alta with Rioja Ardanza.  The blend is 90% Tempranillo, from a selection of estate-owned vineyards in Villalba, Briñas, and Rodezno with loamy, limestone soils, and 10% Graciano, from the alluvial, gravelly soils of Montecillo estate in Fuenmayor. The wine spent four years in American oak barrels, made at their own cooperage, and then bottled in May 2021 to continue ageing in bottle before release.

2016 was marked by a long and balanced growing season, with favourable weather conditions that led to a calm and steady harvest and excellent grape maturation. Abundant winter and spring rainfall ensured excellent soil water reserves with a cool spring delaying the start of the vegetative cycle. Summer was neither excessively hot or wet which allowed for slow and uniform ripening. Mild temperatures and absence of rain during harvest allowed for a staggered harvest of healthy grapes at their optimal ripeness. The 2016 wines exhibit vibrant acidity, fine tannins, and excellent aromatic expression, with moderate alcohol levels, ensuring great aging potential. 

 Always among the best value fine wines we offer, Rioja Alta's wines are layered and complex, but are also unerringly accessible and enjoyable, so don't miss this opportunity to add this great vintage to your cellar.

Offered in bond, available autumn 2025.