La Rioja Alta 890 Gran Reserva 1981

Wine: La Rioja Alta 890 Gran Reserva 1981
Winery: La Rioja Alta S.A. (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 90% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and Mazuelo
ABV: 12.5%
Viticulture

The Tempranillo is sourced from the estate's oldest vineyards in the Rioja Alta sub-zone, primarily within the municipalities of Briñas, Labastida, and Villalba. The remaining grapes originate from the Melchorón I and II estates in Briones and Rodezno.
Winemaking

Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks under controlled temperatures (30°C). The wine spent 6 months in centennial oak vats to complete malolactic fermentation. In 1982, the wine was transferred to 225-liter American oak barrels. It underwent an aging period of 84 months with a total of 12 manual rackings (trasiegas). Bottled directly from the barrel, without filtration, in February 1989.

 

Tasting Notes
 

Appearance: Brownish-ruby with medium depth; very fine sediment at the base of the bottle. Bright, with copper and reddish highlights. The rim is broad and tawny (tile-red), showing little distinction from the meniscus.

 

Nose: Immensely elegant and rich in detail. It initially reveals fine mentholated notes, orange zest, licorice, earthy tones, leaf litter, and a powerful wild accent of green tea, fig tree, and sage. It softens with aeration, unveiling notes of very ripe fruit—macerated plums, quince, and carob—alongside creamy vanilla and toasted nuances (caramelized sugar). Expressive, gaining intensity and depth as it breathes; perfumed, with notes of aromatic coffee and cocoa butter. Slightly off-dry (abocado).

 

Palate: Pure smoothness and roundness; fleshy and velvety, with everything in its place—orderly and lively. Approachable and direct, it is currently in a great drinking window, appearing to have reached its peak. A red that delivers from the first sip and provides immense satisfaction. In comparison with the 1982 890 Gran Reserva, it appears to be less concentrated and built for a slightly shorter lifespan.

 

Personal Score: 93
Tasting Group Score: 94