2010 La Rioja Alta "Vina Ardanza" Seleccion Especial

This is one of the best Rioja's in recent years. Why? very favorable weather, vines were in excellent condition, both in development and health. The vines produced perfect fruit making the 2010 vintage in Rioja the vintage of the decade! The 2010 "Vina Ardanza" is a testament to that, a traditional Rioja blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha which received the coveted "Seleccion Especial." 

Having been in production for 78 years, the 2010 vintage reach "Seleccion Especial" status, a moniker exclusively awarded to three previous vintages. It's testament to the remarkable quality of the wine. The 2010 Ardanza is not only a high quality expression of classic Rioja, but the best in its class and delivers absurd value. Anything short of a case purchase would be doing this wine a disservice. We'll look back in 20 years and the 2010 Vina Ardanza will be one of the most coveted wines in the world. This wine will take your palate on a euphoric ride today and again in 20+ years. Don't miss out.  

Ageing: Tempranillo, 36 months in American oak; Garnacha, 30 months in American oak. Bottled in May 2015.

Tasting Notes: Medium-high intensity, garnet–red with a cherry rim. The nose is fresh and spicy, with hints of sweet cherry, red currants and ripe strawberries followed by notes of black pepper, sweet liquorice, nutmeg, coffee, mocha and cinnamon. Intense and well-balanced, the wine is soft with great structure, and elegant tannins. The finish is long and silky, capped with sweet red fruits and a hint of balsamic. Enjoy with roasted lamb, red meats, barbecues, large game, spicy fish casseroles, smoked and aged cheeses.