Wines Rioja La Rioja Alta - Viña Ardanza Reserva - 2015

La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva 2015 is an emblematic red wine from La Rioja, a region revered for its tradition and elegance in Spanish winemaking. Crafted primarily from Tempranillo, this cuvée is typically blended with a smaller proportion of Garnacha, a combination that imparts both structure and vibrant fruitiness. The 2015 vintage stands out for its balance, benefiting from excellent weather conditions that provided healthy, concentrated grapes. Viña Ardanza Reserva is aged for several years in American oak barrels, a hallmark of Rioja’s classic style, which softens the wine and imparts subtle notes of vanilla, tobacco, and sweet spices. On the palate, you’ll discover ripe red fruits, hints of dried herbs, and a lingering, refined finish.

La Rioja, situated in northern Spain, enjoys a privileged climate with both Atlantic and Mediterranean influences. This leads to warm days and cool nights during the growing season, ideal for preserving freshness and complexity in the grapes. The region’s diverse soils—ranging from clay-limestone to iron-rich clay—add further intrigue and depth to the wines. Rioja has centuries of winemaking history, with a reputation anchored in both tradition and innovation. The use of extended barrel ageing is a distinctive feature, contributing to the elegance and ageing potential for which Rioja wines are celebrated.

For a wine of this character and maturity, classic food pairings abound. Try it with slow-cooked lamb, chargrilled steaks, or richly flavoured game, such as roast venison. Traditional Spanish dishes like lamb chops “a la Riojana” or chorizo-studded casseroles will also shine alongside this wine. Its acidity and refined tannins make it a wonderful match for aged Manchego cheese or mushroom-based dishes.

Serve the Viña Ardanza Reserva 2015 at around 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting will allow the wine to fully express its aromatic complexity. This is a wine that can be enjoyed now but will continue to evolve gracefully over the next decade if stored in good cellar conditions.