At a glance

Producer

La Rioja Alta, S.A.

Region

DOCa Rioja, Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$40

Tasting profile

Red cherry and plum fruit with hints of vanilla and subtle spice from oak ageing. Slight earthy undertones.

Evolution: Will develop more complex tertiary notes such as leather, tobacco, and dried herbs with time.

At peak: Rich, nuanced maturity with a silky texture, harmonious tannins and vibrant acidity.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, providing freshness and aging potential

Tannins

Medium and ripe

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage, suitable for cellaring until 2028-2030

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2040

Optimal window

2023 to 2043

Current status

Optimal drinking window approaching

Current condition

The wine should show balanced fruit and tannin integration with evolving tertiary aromas.

La Rioja Alta’s Viña Alberdi Reserva is a classic Rioja that balances freshness and oak influence. The 2015 vintage was excellent with ripe fruit and good structure, allowing a solid aging window. Early drinking reveals vibrant fruit and oak spices, but the best experience will come from additional bottle aging through the late 2020s when tertiary aromas soften and harmonize.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, roasted pork, mature cheeses, chorizo, and dishes featuring earthy mushrooms or tomato-based sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow youthful tannins and oak to integrate and the wine to open aromatically.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

La Rioja Alta employs water conservation methods and energy-efficient winery technologies; uses traditional oak aging sustainably sourced; packaging incorporates recycled materials.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, La Rioja Alta shows a strong commitment to sustainable farming and resource management, aiming to balance quality production with environmental responsibility within the Rioja region.