“A Legend in the Making”: 97+ pt. 2010 Rioja Gran Reserva from a Traditionalist Master
Posted on: 07/31/19 2:48 PM
La Rioja Alta is an icon in the world of wine. A titan of traditionalism alongside Lopez de Heredia, this foundational Domaine produces some of Spain’s most seductive, complex and age-worthy wines. But you know that already. Whether it’s the value-laden Alberdi or Ardanza, or the ultra-collectible 904 and 890 Gran Reservas, La Rioja Alta has been a mainstay of our Spanish program and the foundation of many an Iberian cellars.
But this is different than our usual pitch. 2010 is well on its way to being a modern legend in Rioja, garnering the kind of fervid frenzy that was last garnered by 2001. Powerful, intense, and yet balanced, 2010 has the magical combination of exquisite fruit, harmonic balance and fine-boned structure all suspended over what seems like impenetrable concentration that only the very greatest vintages have.
2010 is certainly among the very greatest vintages.
La Rioja Alta’s 904 is a wine you will want to have in your cellar – for now, for 10 years from now, or for your grandkids, this wine will not only last, improve and be delicious for all. You know you want a case!
2010 La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 Tinto
“It seems like yesterday when the superb 2001 was released, and now I already have the 2010 Gran Reserva 904 in my glass. It has to be among the greatest modern time vintages of this mythical bottling, where they aim for a wine that has a long aging potential. This is mostly Tempranillo with 10% Graciano and 13.5% alcohol, and it matured in fourth-used American oak barrels for four years, during which time the wine was racked every six months. It has the combination of elegance and power only the best vintages are capable of, with the classical aromas, great detail and nuance, very good balance and persistence. They consider 2010 among the best years of this century, and maybe future generations will talk about 2010 like we talk about the great classical vintages of yesterday today. The palate is polished but shows plenty of energy and tension, the tannins are very fine and elegant, and the flavors are focused and clean. This has to be one of the greatest wines from the vintage. A legend in the making.” 96+ pts. Wine Advocate
“A step up on the memorable 2009, this shows just how special the 2010 vintage was. Marrying fruit from Briñas, Villalba and Rodezno, it’s a perfectly judged marriage of Tempranillo with 10% Graciano. Savoury wild herb notes segue into a palate that’s focused, balanced and graceful with the concentration and backbone to age.” 97 pts., Tim Atkin, MW
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