La Rioja Alta “Viña Alberdi” Reserva 2016

100% Tempranillo from our Mayorita, El Bardal and El Rebollar vineyards in Rodezno and Alto del Rey in Labastida. These vineyards are located at an altitude of 500- 600 metres (1600-2000 ft) above sea level, planted more than 40 years ago in chalkyclay soils.

We carried out the harvest by hand, selecting each cluster at the vineyard. The grapes were transported refrigerated in 300-kg (660-lb) boxes to the winery, in order to maintain their full integrity. After light destemming and crushing, the grapes were put in tanks where they underwent alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. The wine was then matured for two years in American oak barrels manufactured in-house; the first year in new oak and the second year in four-year old barrels. We carried out four rackings in the traditional way, under candlelight, from barrel to barrel, carefully separating the wine from the dregs. Bottled in September 2019.

James Suckling – “Aromas of subtle red fruit with plums, spice and cedar. Some dried flowers and dried spices, such as paprika. It’s medium-bodied with some pretty, ripe fruit in the center palate, fine tannins and a citrus and cedar undertone to the finish. Drink or hold.” (93 Pts)

Vinous – “Glistening ruby-red. Spice-tinged red fruit and floral aromas pick up hints of coconut and succulent herbs with air. Silky and expressive on the palate, offering appealingly sweet cherry and raspberry flavors and a spicecake nuance that builds steadily in the glass. Closes long and smooth, with repeating florality and subtle tannins that come in late.” (92 Pts)