Wines Rioja Vina Ardanza Rioja Reserva 2012 Magnum - 2012

Viniou Reviews

Viña Ardanza Rioja Reserva 2012 Magnum is a classic example of Rioja Reserva, featuring predominantly Tempranillo grapes with a small portion of Garnacha, sourced from old vines on the esteemed La Rioja Alta estate. The 2012 vintage is considered a particularly balanced and expressive year, marked by favourable weather conditions that yielded wines of both structure and finesse. After hand harvesting, the wine undergoes a traditional fermentation with extended maceration, followed by meticulous ageing in American oak barrels, which imparts signature notes of vanilla, coconut, and spice alongside the wine’s natural dark fruit character. Presented in magnum format, this vintage develops at a slower pace, offering enhanced freshness and complexity over time.

Rioja, located in north-central Spain, is one of the country's most iconic wine regions, famous for its age-worthy red blends. The climate here is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and the sheltering Sierra Cantabria mountains, creating the perfect balance between warmth and fresh breezes, ideal for slow maturation. The soils of Rioja are diverse, mixing clay, limestone and iron with alluvial deposits, which help define the rich yet elegant style of the region’s wines. With a venerable winemaking history dating back centuries, Rioja’s commitment to quality and tradition is reflected in its strict appellation laws and multi-tier ageing classifications.

Viña Ardanza Rioja Reserva 2012’s refined structure and depth lend themselves beautifully to a wide array of food pairings. Traditional Spanish dishes such as slow-roasted lamb shoulder with rosemary, chorizo-stuffed peppers, or a classic riojano stew (patatas a la riojana) highlight both the savoury and spicy elements of the wine. Internationally, it works fabulously with grilled game, duck breast with a cherry reduction, or aged Manchego cheese. The nuanced oakiness and vibrant acidity also complement mushroom risottos or dishes with smoky paprika.

For optimal appreciation, decant the magnum for at least an hour to allow its aromas to open up fully and serve at 16-18°C. This will showcase the wine's supple tannins, harmonious fruit, and subtle spice, inviting you to enjoy its complexity now or cellar it for years to come.