La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva Selección Especial 2016

The La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva Selección Especial 2016 is an extraordinary expression of Rioja winemaking, produced by the iconic La Rioja Alta winery. Selección Especial is a designation given only to the finest vintages of Viña Ardanza, showcasing its quality and long-aging potential. Crafted primarily from Tempranillo and Garnacha (Grenache), the 2016 vintage benefits from an ideal growing season, resulting in a wine that is both elegant and complex, balancing rich fruit with the classic characteristics of long oak aging.

Appearance: Deep ruby red with a slightly garnet rim, showcasing its youth and potential for further development.

Aroma: The nose is intense and layered, with vibrant aromas of ripe red cherries, plum, and blackberry, complemented by more mature notes of tobacco, leather, and balsamic. There are also sweet spices like vanilla, cinnamon, and clove from the American oak, along with subtle nuances of cocoa, toasted coconut, and dried herbs, adding complexity and depth.

Taste: On the palate, this wine is medium to full-bodied with smooth, well-integrated tannins and a refreshing acidity that provides balance and elegance. Flavours of red and black fruits such as cherry, raspberry, and plum are interwoven with savoury notes of tobacco, leather, and cedar. The oak aging imparts vanilla, caramel, and spice, but these elements are beautifully harmonized, allowing the fruit to remain at the forefront. There’s a touch of earthiness and minerality, giving the wine added complexity and texture.

Finish: The finish is long and refined, with lingering notes of ripe red fruit, vanilla, and a slight smoky character, reflecting the wine’s depth and excellent aging potential.

Food pairing: This Selección Especial pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like lamb, pork, or beef, especially with herbaceous rubs or rich sauces. It also complements Spanish dishes such as roasted suckling pig or chorizo, as well as mushroom-based dishes and game meats. Aged cheeses like Manchego or firm, hard cheeses also work beautifully with the wine’s structure and complexity.