Viña Ardanza 1985 Reserva

Wine: Viña Ardanza 1985 Reserva
Winery: La Rioja Alta S.A. (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 70% Tempranillo, 25% Garnacha, 5% Graciano and Mazuelo
ABV: 12.5%
Viticulture

The Garnacha is sourced from vineyards in Tudelilla, while the remaining grapes originate from the "Viña Ardanza" estate in Montecillo and small-scale growers in Haro, Briñas, Briones, Villalba, and Labastida.
Winemaking

Primary fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks, after which the wine was racked to settle for 12 months in old 18,000-liter oak vats. It was then transferred to seasoned 225-liter American oak barrels for 48 months of aging, undergoing a total of 8 manual rackings (trasiegas). Bottled in November 1990. Aged in the bottle for a minimum of 24 months prior to release.

 

Tasting Notes
 

Appearance: Bright and very lively reddish-ruby with medium-high depth and a sturdy viscosity. It shows pomegranate and copper highlights with a broad, tawny (tile-red) rim.

 

Nose: Refined and soft with medium intensity, featuring aromas of freshly ground coffee, cinnamon, creamy nuances, vanilla, and high-quality wood, alongside spicy notes of clove and ginger. It opens up and gains complexity as it breathes, revealing a greater presence of ripe red fruit, cherry in liqueur, smoky notes, and English tobacco. While not excessively deep or fragrant, it is remarkably well-balanced, with an elegant earthy and mineral touch of chalk in the background.

 

Palate: Fleshy and spicy on the palate, driven by intense acidity and firm, lively tannins. It possesses great energy and an unusual degree of balance for a wine of such vigor. The fruit is highly concentrated, and a hint of sweetness is perceived alongside a bitter counterpoint. Truly enjoyable. A very good vintage! 

 

Personal Score: 90
Tasting Group Score: 90