Vina Arana Gran Reserva, Rioja 2017

This is Gran Reserva with a lighter touch - all elegance and restraint, rather than a heavy oak-laden hit. Mostly Tempranillo with a splash of Graciano, it spends three years in oak, which adds depth without overpowering the fruit. The nose is complex yet fresh, with dark fruit, coffee, and a hint of black chocolate. On the palate, ripe red fruit and balsamic notes glide across finely integrated tannins, giving it that polished, effortless feel. The finish? Long, refined, and quietly confident. It's Rioja showing its sophisticated side, proving that power isn’t everything.

Perfect with the likes of Beef Wellington, coq au vin, or duck à l’orange.Great now though it's in no hurry to be drunk - it's happy to wait another 20 years if you are.

Founded in 1890, La Rioja Alta is one of the region's most respected and historic wineries, blending deep-rooted tradition with an ability to move with the times. Unlike many producers in Rioja, who have long relied on buying in fruit, they now source all their grapes exclusively from their own vineyards, ensuring quality and consistency. In particular, their commitment to oak remains unwavering, with an in-house cooperage allowing them to oversee every stage of barrel production. The result is a range of timeless Riojas, crafted through meticulous ageing and unmatched tradition. They set a benchmark for the region with wines that are as elegant as they are enduring.