Wine: Glorioso 1994 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Palacio (Laguardia, Álava)
Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
ABV: 13%
Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
ABV: 13%
Winemaking:
The fruit was sourced primarily from smallgrowers in Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Alta, complemented by estate-grown grapes from old vines surrounding the winery in Laguardia. Following de-stemming, the must underwent fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, followed by a four-week maceration period. The wine was aged for 36 months in 225-liter French oak barrels, with at least two manual rackings (barrel-to-barrel) per year. It was clarified using fresh egg whites and bottled unfiltered directly from the cask. Finally, it underwent a minimum of two years of bottle aging in the winery’s historic underground cellars before its release in 2000.
The fruit was sourced primarily from smallgrowers in Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Alta, complemented by estate-grown grapes from old vines surrounding the winery in Laguardia. Following de-stemming, the must underwent fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, followed by a four-week maceration period. The wine was aged for 36 months in 225-liter French oak barrels, with at least two manual rackings (barrel-to-barrel) per year. It was clarified using fresh egg whites and bottled unfiltered directly from the cask. Finally, it underwent a minimum of two years of bottle aging in the winery’s historic underground cellars before its release in 2000.
Tasting notes
Appearance
A
deep garnet-red with medium-high opacity, showing more extraction than
other contemporary releases from the estate. It displays brilliant
copper reflections and a significant amount of sediment. The rim is
narrow and distinctly orange-toned against the meniscus.
Nose
Initially dominated by oak influence,
featuring toasted notes, rich spices, and an overarching chocolatey
backdrop. Despite its age, it maintains a remarkable freshness with no
signs of over-ripeness—a departure from the winery's typical style of
that era. As it breathes, it reveals subtle layers of coffee beans, ash,
old leather, and a delicate hint of orange peel. It is an expressive,
immediate wine, though not entirely "classic" in profile, showcasing a
strong varietal character.
Palate
Slightly tight on the entry, it soon reveals a solid structure underpinned by vibrant acidity.
It is well-balanced, broad, and savory, showing seamless integration
with no harsh edges. This is a reliable Gran Reserva, technically
flawless and remarkably robust. There is a sense that it may not have
even reached its full peak yet, suggesting further aging potential.
While it sits slightly in the shadow of the Reserva Especial bottlings produced by the winery in the mid-90s, it remains an excellent, rewarding wine.
Personal Score: 90
Tasting Group Average: 90
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