2004 Vina Ardanza Reserva
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Tasting notes
A bit fresher if less rich than the 2005. Very fine and spicy with a strong strawberry note. A very fine wine by any measure. See several other enthusiastic notes. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Handsome magnums! Looks a little cloudy. Mid ruby. Absolutely classic mature rioja nose with a mixture of stewed strawberries and animal mulch (not quite manure!!). Manages to be both sweet and refreshing – no excess of alcohol. Oak in retreat. A very clever purchase for holiday entertaining – though some guests may be put off by the individuality of this wine. Very gentle finish. (JR)
(80% tempranillo and 20% garnacha): Vivid ruby-red. Suave, spicy red fruit preserve and potpourri scents are complicated by notes of vanilla, licorice and mocha. Sappy, focused and energetic, offering sweet raspberry and cherry-cola flavors that are given lift by juicy acidity. Impressively pure and penetrating on the finish, which leaves floral pastille and smoky mineral notes behind.
Cheesy nose but fun and stuffed with complex fruit. Appetising dry finish and real zest. Very classical (compared with Rioja modernists' efforts). (JR)
About the producer
Based in Haro, La Rioja Alta is one of Rioja’s most famous, traditional wine producers – alongside the likes of López de Heredia, Muga and CVNE.