Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the timeless elegance of La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva 2017, a benchmark of Rioja winemaking excellence. This captivating red blend, crafted from 80% Tempranillo sourced from 30-year-old vines in Rioja Alta and 20% Garnacha grown in the rocky soils of Rioja Oriental, boasts a complex profile of baked cherry, raspberry ganache, and warm fig, balanced by earthy notes of leather, bay leaf, and vanilla. Aged meticulously in American oak barrels for up to 36 months and bottle-aged for an additional three years, this wine delivers silky tannins, harmonious acidity, and a long, smooth finish with hints of clove, licorice, and balsamic undertones. Perfect for pairing with roast lamb or aged cheeses, this medium-bodied, 14.5% ABV Reserva is a true testament to the art of Rioja winemaking—offering richness, depth, and unparalleled sophistication. Enjoy now or cellar through 2032 for an even more refined experience.
Process & Profile
Crafted by the renowned La Rioja Alta winery, the Viña Ardanza Reserva 2017 exemplifies the best of Rioja's winemaking artistry. This blend consists of 80% Tempranillo from 30+-year-old vines in Rioja Alta and 20% Garnacha, sourced from the distinctive rocky soils of Tudelilla in Rioja Oriental. The grapes are meticulously handpicked and carefully selected to ensure only the finest make it into production. Following fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine is aged using traditional Rioja methods: 36 months in American oak barrels for the Tempranillo and 30 months for the Garnacha. Each barrel is racked manually, preserving the wine's natural character and elegance. This classic Reserva is bottled without filtration, delivering a robust yet graceful wine with a bold alcohol content of 14.5%.Tasting Notes
The Viña Ardanza Reserva 2017 offers a sensory symphony of aromas and flavors:- On the Nose: A powerful blend of spicy, balsamic, and fruity notes. Expect layers of sweet licorice, clove, nutmeg, and black pepper, intertwined with ripe red fruit like cherry and raspberry.
- On the Palate: Smooth and balanced with a medium body, it reveals polished tannins and a harmonious structure. Flavors of cherries, vanilla, cocoa, and spices take center stage, finishing with hints of balsamic and a lingering subtle freshness.
- Appearance: A stunning garnet red with a clear, bright rim that speaks to its elegance and maturity.
What Makes It Special
Viña Ardanza Reserva is a masterful expression of Rioja's heritage. Produced only in exceptional vintages, this wine is a benchmark for the Reserva category, delivering consistency, complexity, and finesse. The dedication to traditional methods—such as exclusive use of American oak and unfiltered bottling—ensures its old-world charm while maintaining extraordinary quality. With accolades like 95 points from James Suckling and 94 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, the 2017 vintage stands out as one of the best-crafted expressions from the region.How to Enjoy
- Pairings: Perfect with roast lamb, grilled red meats, game, aged cheeses, or even a rich, spicy seafood dish. It also complements chocolate-glazed desserts beautifully.
- Serving Temperature: Serve slightly below room temperature at 17°C (62°F) to fully appreciate its complexity.
- Longevity: While it is delightful now, this wine has excellent cellaring potential and will mature gracefully through 2035.
Experience Rioja's Timeless Elegance
The La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva 2017 combines tradition, craftsmanship, and terroir into a bottle of wine that is as memorable as the history it represents. Whether celebrating a special occasion or elevating a casual meal, this wine is a true testament to the enduring greatness of Rioja.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the grape composition of Viña Ardanza Reserva?
Viña Ardanza Reserva is made with a blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha. The Tempranillo comes from 30-year-old vineyards in Fuenmayor and Cenicero (Rioja Alta), while the Garnacha is sourced from La Pedriza vineyard in Tudelilla (Rioja Oriental).
What makes this wine unique?
This wine is considered a classic Rioja with extended aging: the Tempranillo is aged for 36 months and the Garnacha for 30 months in American oak barrels. The wine undergoes manual racking and is bottled without aggressive filtration, resulting in exceptional complexity and balance. Its profile showcases red fruit, spices, and balsamic nuances, with silky tannins and a long finish.
What food pairings go well with Viña Ardanza Reserva?
Viña Ardanza Reserva complements a variety of dishes, including roast lamb, red meats, barbecues, game, spicy fish casseroles, smoked dishes, and aged cheeses.
How long can Viña Ardanza Reserva be aged?
The 2017 vintage of Viña Ardanza Reserva is drinkable now but exhibits excellent aging potential. It can be cellared until 2034 or beyond, allowing its flavors to develop further.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
Viña Ardanza Reserva 2017 has an alcohol content of 14.5%, providing a balanced structure with medium body and smooth acidity.
Is Viña Ardanza Reserva vegan-friendly?
Yes, Viña Ardanza Reserva is vegan. The production process avoids the use of animal-derived fining agents, aligning with vegan dietary preferences.
What awards or ratings has Viña Ardanza Reserva received?
The 2017 vintage has garnered impressive reviews, including 95 points from James Suckling, 94 points from Wine Advocate and Tim Atkin, and 92 points from Wine Spectator. It is highly praised for its vibrant fruit expression, complex structure, and harmonious finish.
What is the history behind Viña Ardanza Reserva?
Viña Ardanza was first registered as a brand in 1942, commemorating one of the founders, Don Alfredo Ardanza. The wine is produced by La Rioja Alta, S.A., a winery established in 1890 and known for its exceptional quality and traditional Rioja winemaking methods.
What distinguishes the 2017 vintage?
Despite the challenges of the 2017 harvest, this vintage stands out for its ripe yet balanced profile. It features intense cherry, earthy notes, and spices, with polished tannins and a smooth mouthfeel. The strong polyphenolic content ensures excellent aging potential.
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