Conde de los Andes 1973 Gran Reserva

Wine: Conde de los Andes 1973 Gran Reserva
Winery: Federico Paternina (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 100% Tempranillo
ABV: 12%

Winemaking:
The wine rests for 12 months in large, century-old oak vats to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilization. It then matures for 72 to 84 months in semi-new 225-liter American oak barrels. Depending on the vintage, it undergoes an extensive bottle aging period of 10 to 15 years in the historic underground cellars (calados) of Ollauri before being released to the market.

 

Tasting Notes

 

 Appearance: Medium-intensity ruby-red; limpid, transparent, and luminous. Displays vibrant amber reflections with no sediment at the base. The rim is broad, tawny (atejado), and sharply defined.

 

Nose: High intensity, open, and remarkably expressive. It possesses a traditional Rioja character very much in line with the great 1973s. Its "Burgundian" profile reveals notes of leather, withered flowers, and petals, set against a backdrop of exotic woods and cocoa powder. It continues to unfurl as it breathes, gaining complexity and detail

 

Palate: Tense and round. This is perhaps the greatest expression of Tempranillo that Rioja can offer. It has gained stature in recent years and is currently in a spectacular window. A grand, full-bodied, and mature wine with no fissures, backed by vibrant acidity and a never-ending finish. It is approaching its peak, where it will likely remain for years.

 

Commentary:
One of the finest bottles of Conde de los Andes we have ever encountered. Arguably the best Rioja from the 1973 vintage and among the greatest wines produced in the 1970s.

 

Personal Score: 98
Tasting Group Average: 99
Price: €140

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