Wines Rioja La Rioja Alta Seleccion 874 Reserva Rioja 2013 Magnums - 2013

Viniou Reviews

La Rioja Alta Selección 874 Reserva Rioja 2013, presented here in magnum format, is a classic red wine from one of Spain’s most respected producers. This vintage is predominantly composed of Tempranillo, Rioja’s signature grape, with possible touches of Graciano and Mazuelo, adding complexity and freshness. The 2013 growing season was relatively cool and challenging, with rains during the late spring and a dry summer, resulting in elegant, aromatic wines with finely tuned acidity. The wine undergoes traditional vinification, with careful fermentation and extended ageing in American oak barrels. The Reserva classification indicates a minimum ageing of three years, with at least one in oak, which lends this wine its characteristic notes of sweet spice, tobacco, dried fruit, and a subtle vanilla undertone. The magnum presentation further promotes graceful ageing and development in the bottle.

La Rioja, Spain’s most celebrated wine region, enjoys a storied heritage of vine cultivation stretching back centuries, greatly influenced by French winemakers fleeing phylloxera in the late 19th century. The region features a temperate continental climate, modulated by the Sierra Cantabria mountains, which shield the vineyards from Atlantic weather. Its diverse soils—mainly limestone, clay, and alluvial—contribute distinct layers of minerality and finesse to the wines. Rioja’s varied terroir is crucial in crafting wines that balance structure, freshness, and longevity.

This elegant reserva is ideally suited to richer, earthy dishes. Traditional Rioja lamb cutlets grilled over vine shoots, slow-braised oxtail, or a rustic Spanish stew with chorizo and beans would be superb partners. It also harmonises with roast suckling pig or mature Spanish sheep’s cheeses like Manchego. For a British touch, consider serving it alongside beef Wellington or a hearty game pie.

For optimum enjoyment, decant the magnum for at least an hour to allow the wine to unfold its bouquet. Serve at 16-18°C in large, tulip-shaped glasses to enhance the aromatic complexity and savour its refined tannins and persistent finish. This bottling is well-suited to further cellaring if you favour even greater aromatic evolution in years to come.