Wines Rioja La Rioja Alta - Viña Ardanza Reserva Selección Especial - 2010

La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva Selección Especial 2010 is a benchmark wine from the celebrated Rioja region of Spain. Produced by the historic La Rioja Alta estate, this cuvée is highly regarded for its refinement and consistency over the years. The blend for Viña Ardanza traditionally leans on Tempranillo as a primary grape, often complemented by a lesser proportion of Garnacha (Grenache), reflecting the classic style of Rioja reds. The 2010 vintage stands out as one of the most lauded years in recent memory, with favourable weather providing grapes of outstanding quality. Ageing in American oak barrels—a hallmark of the region—imparts distinctive notes of vanilla, sweet spice, and subtle toast to the wine, integrating seamlessly with ripe cherry, plum, and dried herb characters developed during its lengthy maturation.

Rioja, located in north-central Spain, benefits from a temperate continental climate moderated by Atlantic influences and the sheltering Cantabrian mountains. The region’s soils are varied, with Viña Ardanza’s vineyards primarily rooted in calcareous clay and alluvial types, underpinning the wine’s balanced structure and freshness. Rioja’s winemaking heritage dates back centuries, and its reserves like this demonstrate an emphasis on patient barrel and bottle ageing, ensuring complexity and approachability upon release.

Pairing this Rioja Reserva with food is a true pleasure: its savoury, supple structure and matured fruit suit roasted lamb, game birds such as quail or partridge, and rich stews. Classic Spanish dishes—including slow-cooked lamb shoulder (cordero asado) or riojana-style chorizo with peppers—are natural partners, but equally, the wine’s freshness allows it to shine alongside hard cheeses and mushroom-based fare.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Viña Ardanza Reserva at 16-18°C after allowing it to breathe for at least an hour. Enjoying it from large-bowled glasses will further enhance the bouquet and reveal the full depth of this finely crafted Rioja.