Wines Rioja Altanza - Reserva - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Altanza Reserva 2017 hails from one of Spain’s most renowned appellations, Rioja DO. Crafted primarily from the Tempranillo grape with possibly a complementary proportion of Graciano or Mazuelo, this reserva displays all the hallmarks of Rioja’s classic style. The 2017 vintage saw moderate weather, supporting fresh fruit character with refined structure. The wine is typically aged for a minimum of 36 months, with at least one year in oak barrels, endowing it with seductive notes of dark cherry, plum, vanilla, and sweet spices. Its deep ruby hue, elegant tannins, and lingering finish are testament to both its varietal confidence and its careful maturation.

La Rioja is a privileged region for winemaking, nestled in northern Spain between the Ebro River and Sierra de Cantabria mountains. The region’s continental climate is moderated by Atlantic influences, providing warm days and cool nights—an ideal recipe for Tempranillo to ripen slowly and steadily. The soils vary from calcareous clay to alluvial and ferrous-clay, adding layered complexity to the resulting wines. With a history shaped by centuries of winemaking, and bolstered by nineteenth-century French influences, Rioja has established itself as Spain’s benchmark for age-worthy, oak-influenced reds.

This Altanza Reserva is wonderfully versatile at the table. Its poised structure, subtle oak, and ripe fruit make it a classic match for slow-cooked lamb shoulder or a herb-crusted rack of lamb—a nod to La Rioja’s abundant pastoral traditions. It also pairs beautifully with hearty mushroom stews, Manchego cheese, or grilled chorizo, enticing the palate with each mouthful. The wine’s acidity and tannins can handle rich, tomato-based dishes such as Rioja-style potatoes (patatas a la riojana) or roasted red peppers stuffed with minced meat.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the Altanza Reserva 2017 about an hour before drinking to allow the wine to breathe and express its aromatic complexity. Serve at 16-18°C to appreciate its full bouquet and harmony on the palate. This wine has great ageing potential but is delightfully approachable now.