La Rioja Alta 2017 Vina Ardanza Reserva, Spain

$43.99 bottle / $239.94($39.99) six-pack

Long-time readers of our newsletter know that we love La Rioja Alta's great Viña Ardanza virtually every year that it's made. This vintage is a model of elegance and finesse - like some kind of dreamy hybrid of old-school Rioja and pre 1990s Bordeaux. While classic Viña Ardanza aromatics soar from the glass, the palate is ultra-silky smooth and just beginning to show its hand. The completeness of the 2017 vintage has married perfectly with the classical wine making at La Rioja Alta to produce this magnificent wine that offers incredible complexity, elegance and age-ability. Enjoy now and over the next 25+ years (for reals).  

“Viña Ardanza is a wine that embodies the long history of Rioja. The 2017 Reserva Viña Ardanza is a blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha sourced from Rioja Alta and Oriental. Aged for up to 36 months in American oak, it presents a ripe profile with aromas of black fruit, earth and balsamic, complemented by cedar and vanilla. On the palate, it is dry and rich, with a juicy texture and fine, polished tannins that culminate in a bold and lingering finish. This is a vibrant red wine with harmonious balance. Drink: 2024-2035.” - 93 Vinous

“Round and silky on the palate with lovely spices and a long, nicely saline finish. A nice touch of creaminess works really well here and further extends the finish. Drink or hold.” - 95 JS / 94 WA