La Rioja Alta : Vina Arana Gran Reserva 2012

A seductive balance and intensity, a Rioja Gran Reserva wine

The estate

Founded in 1890 by 5 families, La Rioja Alta is a benchmark among La Rioja wines. Elegant, aromatic and balanced, the wines produced by La Rioja Alta are renowned for their complex and authentic expression of fine Spanish wines.

The vineyard

This 2012 Viña Arana Gran Reserva by La Rioja Alta comprises a majority of Tempranillo grapes from vineyards located in the municipality of Rodezno (Las Cuevas, El Palo, Las Monjas) as well as Graciano from the Montecillo estate in Fuenmayor.

The vintage

2012 was a year marked by a severe drought, resulting in an uneven ripening depending on the grape variety. The rainfall recorded at the end of September was beneficial for the vineyard, boosting the development of the vines and the ripening of the grapes. The harvested grapes revealed a beautiful balance, structure and rare richness. The decision was then taken to produce the first edition of this Viña Arana Gran Reserva.

Vinification and ageing

Following harvesting in small crates, the grapes are transported to the winery in a refrigerated truck, in order to preserve their integrity. Alcoholic fermentation in vats for 16 days for the Tempranillo grapes and 18 days for the Graciano varierty. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation before being placed in third-fill American oak barrels in March 2013. Aged for approximately 3 years with racking every six months. Final blend in March 2016.

The blend

Tempranillo (95%)

Graciano (5%)

La Rioja Alta’s 2012 Viña Arana Gran Reserva: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

A beautiful red colour with garnet highlights.

Nose

Intensely aromatic, the nose combines fruity fragrances (ripe red fruit, wild strawberries, plum jam) with delicious pastry notes and tertiary aromas (vanilla, cedar, tobacco, coffee, caramel) conferred by the ageing process.

Palate

The palate showcases an alluring freshness, structure and balance. Elegant and complex tannins weave into a finish with fruity (ripe red fruit) and balsamic notes.

Food and wine pairing

This Rioja wine is ideal with meat, stews, fish served with seasoning and desserts, especially chocolate and fruit.