Viña Albina 1989 Gran Reserva

Wine: Viña Albina 1989 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Riojanas (Cenicero, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 75% Tempranillo, 15% Mazuelo, 5% Garnacha, 2% Graciano, 3% others (Viura, Malvasía Riojana).
ABV: 12% vol.

Winemaking

The wine remained for 6 to 12 months in stainless steel tanks to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilize before racking. It matured for 30 months in 225-liter American oak barrels with regular rackings. It underwent a minimum of 3 years of bottle aging prior to its commercial release.

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Very light reddish-ruby color with medium depth; luminous and clean. Wide orange rim, showing almost no distinction from the meniscus.

 

Nose: Initially presents low intensity but is precise and expressive. Abundant creamy toasted oak notes, vanilla, and sweet spices gradually give way to a residual core of dried fruits (figs, carob), cocoa butter, smoke, and brioche. It grows increasingly complex and open, offering a more traditional Riojan aging profile: old leather, candied fruit, and leaf litter. Subtle and understated.

 

Palate: It displays immense balance and a point of vivid acidity upon which everything rests: fine bitter notes, "Zara" licorice, noble wood, and the aforementioned vanilla nuance. Ample and creamy, with a high-quality hint of sweetness. A robust, firm Viña Albina with much to say, yet still somewhat reserved.

 

Commentary

The 1989 Gran Reserva is another red that confirms the rule: Bodegas Riojanas' wines require extensive cellaring to be enjoyed at their peak. This bottle is a testament to that longevity—a firm and integrated wine that, while currently delivering high elegance, still holds a quiet potential for further development. A classicist's delight that values balance over exuberance.

 

Personal Score: 90
Tasting Group Average: 92