At a glance

Producer

La Rioja Alta S.A.

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo (traditional Rioja red blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60 - $90 USD (typical retail price range as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Complex aromas of dried red berries, leather, tobacco, cedar, and hints of vanilla oak; palate is layered with savory spices and silky tannins.

Evolution: Will continue developing tertiary notes of forest floor, dried fruits, and earthiness over the next 5-10 years.

At peak: Expect peak aromatic complexity, silky tannins, and balanced acidity supporting long elegant finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high

Tannins

Medium to Firm

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5%-14%

Aging potential

Typically 20-30 years from vintage, can age well beyond 2030 for well-stored bottles

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2043

Optimal window

2021 to 2046

Current status

Approaching maturity, excellent drinking window

Current condition

Wine is currently showing very good complexity, structure, and freshness with well-integrated oak and still vibrant fruit.

2011 Rioja Vintage was solid and classic; La Rioja Alta 904 is a flagship Gran Reserva built for long aging. The balance of fruit, acidity, and oak make this wine suitable for extended cellaring, allowing the complexities to unfold fully between 10-20 years post vintage. Drink sooner if you prefer more exuberant fruit, but maximum development shows after 12-15 years.

Food pairing

Excellent with lamb, roasted game, aged cheeses, grilled mushrooms, and hearty stews. Complements dishes with earthy and savory profiles.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — Decanting softens the medium-firm tannins and helps reveal aromatic complexity by aeration.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

La Rioja Alta S.A. implements sustainable farming practices including water conservation, integrated pest management, and energy efficiency improvements at winery

While not certified organic or biodynamic, La Rioja Alta employs a number of sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact including careful vineyard management, energy-saving winery operations, and packaging optimizations. The wine’s carbon footprint accounts for international shipping but benefits from Spain’s favorable production climate which lowers resource intensity. Overall, sustainability score is above average among comparably styled Rioja Gran Reserva wines.