Wines Rioja La Rioja Alta Selección 874 Reserva, Rioja 2019 - 2019

Viniou Reviews

La Rioja Alta Selección 874 Reserva 2019 is a distinguished red wine from the celebrated Rioja DO. Crafted predominantly from Tempranillo, this Reservas is the result of a careful selection of grapes from some of the best vineyards of the region, blended with small amounts of Graciano and Mazuelo to enhance complexity. The 2019 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, combining warmth with the right amount of rainfall, ensuring ripe, healthy fruit. The wine undergoes a traditional vinification process, with extended ageing in American oak barrels, which imparts elegant spice, vanilla and hints of toast, integrating beautifully with the ripe black and red fruit character — think blackberry, cherry and subtle plum, alongside tertiary notes of tobacco, leather and a touch of balsamic.

The Rioja region, nestled in northern Spain along the Ebro River, is renowned for its unique terroir. The area enjoys a blend of continental and Mediterranean climates, with warm summers and cool nights that contribute to slow, even grape ripening. Soils are diverse, primarily clay-limestone and alluvial, lending both structure and minerality to Rioja’s wines. Rioja’s winemaking heritage stretches back centuries, and the region has forged a reputation worldwide for ageworthy, complex red wines shaped by both tradition and innovation.

For food pairing, the classic style of this Reserva suggests matches with roasted lamb or suckling pig, dishes where the wine’s tannins and acidity can balance the richness of the meat. Traditional Spanish plates like riojan-style chorizo, patatas a la riojana (potatoes with chorizo and peppers), or a hearty mushroom risotto would work beautifully. Mature cheeses such as Manchego, or even blue cheese, will bring out the wine’s savoury depth.

To fully appreciate the aromatic complexity and balanced palate of this Rioja Reserva, serve it at 16-18°C. Decant for at least an hour before serving to allow the bouquet to unfold and the tannins to soften, ensuring a memorable tasting experience.