Viña Ardanza 1981 Reserva

Wine: Viña Ardanza 1981 Reserva
Winery: La Rioja Alta S.A. (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 60% Tempranillo, 25% Garnacha, 10% Graciano and Mazuelo, 5% Viura
ABV: 12.8%
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 6 months in old 18,000-liter oak vats. It was then transferred to seasoned 225-liter American oak barrels for 36 to 42 months of aging, undergoing a total of 6 manual rackings (trasiegas). Bottled in late 1985. Aged in the bottle for a minimum of 24 months prior to release.

 

Tasting Notes
 

Appearance: Stunning, bright reddish-ruby with medium-high depth (capa); lively and pristine with no trace of sediment. It displays luminous copper and amber highlights. The rim is narrow and orange-toned, contrasting sharply with the core. It could easily pass for an Ardanza from the mid-90s, bearing a striking resemblance to the 1996 vintage in its intensity.

 

Nose: A breathtaking nose—simultaneously powerful and delicate. It delivers a wealth of candied red fruits (sour cherries, glacé fruit, quince paste) and maraschino notes, with a high-quality liqueur-like and spicy edge. Elegant, perfumed, and highly expressive, it possesses immense personality. This is one of the finest expressions of the high Garnacha percentage historically used in the Ardanza blend. Floral nuances (geranium, lilac, withered petals) emerge alongside hints of fine wood, cedar, allspice, creamy textures, clove, and bay leaf. Complex and rich in detail.

 

Palate: Insultingly youthful on the palate; lively, fresh, and savory, overflowing with high-toned (acídulo) fruit and earthy notes. It possesses formidable energy and vigor, supported by a sturdy structure and firm tannins, yet remains perfectly balanced. Driven by a spirited acidity, it still has a long life ahead in the bottle. It is incredibly persistent, leaving an ultra-elegant candied sensation on the finish (retronasal). It is remarkable to see how Ardanza captures the very best of this magnificent vintage. A truly great wine.

 

Personal Score: 94
Tasting Group Score: 94