Urbina Gran Reserva Especial 2004

Produced by Bodegas Urbina in the village of Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón in Rioja Alta, Urbina Gran Reserva Especial is a rare wine that embodies the timeless traditions of classical Rioja. Founded in 1870 and still family-owned after five generations, Bodegas Urbina has earned a devoted following for its unwavering commitment to estate-grown fruit, patient maturation and releasing wines only when they are ready to drink. The Gran Reserva Especial is reserved exclusively for exceptional vintages, representing the finest expression of the estate in years of outstanding quality. The vineyards, planted on the clay-limestone and alluvial soils of Rioja Alta, are farmed sustainably with low yields and hand harvesting, producing Tempranillo of remarkable elegance, freshness and longevity.

Made from 100% Tempranillo, the Gran Reserva Especial 2004 was traditionally vinified before ageing for 30 months in a combination of American and French oak barrels, followed by many years of bottle maturation in the winery's historic underground cellars prior to release. The extended ageing has produced a wine of extraordinary complexity, revealing layered aromas of dried cherry, plum, fig and dried apricot alongside notes of cigar box, cedar, leather, balsamic herbs, sweet spice, tobacco and a hint of toffee. The palate is silky, refined and beautifully harmonious, with vibrant acidity supporting delicate, resolved tannins and a remarkably long, savoury finish. A superb example of old-school Rioja at its finest, Urbina Gran Reserva Especial 2004 demonstrates how patience, traditional winemaking and exceptional fruit can create a wine of outstanding finesse, depth and remarkable ageing potential.