La Rioja Alta Vina Arana Gran Reserva 2017

Produced by La Rioja Alta, S.A., Viña Arana Gran Reserva is one of the estate’s most refined traditional Rioja wines, sitting alongside Viña Ardanza and Viña Alberdi within its historic portfolio. Founded in 1890 by a group of Basque and Rioja families, La Rioja Alta has become one of the most important standard-bearers for classical Rioja, maintaining a deeply traditional approach based on long ageing, careful vineyard selection and in-house cooperage. The fruit for Viña Arana is sourced primarily from estate and closely controlled vineyards in Rioja Alta, where clay-limestone soils and the Atlantic-influenced climate produce Tempranillo and Graciano of freshness, structure and aromatic precision. Sustainable vineyard management and low yields ensure consistency while preserving the elegance and balance associated with the estate’s wines.

Made predominantly from Tempranillo with a notable proportion of Graciano, Viña Arana Gran Reserva is fermented in stainless steel before ageing in American oak barrels crafted by the winery’s own cooperage, followed by extended bottle maturation prior to release. This long élevage defines the wine’s classic Rioja character, integrating fruit, spice and oak into a harmonious whole. Aromas of red cherry, raspberry and plum are layered with notes of cedar, vanilla, tobacco leaf, coconut and sweet spice, while the Graciano adds freshness and aromatic lift. The palate is elegant and finely structured, with silky tannins, lively acidity and a long, savoury finish that reflects the precision of Rioja Alta fruit. Polished yet traditional, Viña Arana Gran Reserva offers a more graceful and linear expression than the richer Viña Ardanza, making it a benchmark for refined, age-worthy Rioja.