2017 La Rioja Alta Vina Arana Gran Reserva

Description

96 Points –James Suckling: Deep, savory nose of vanilla, mussels, graphite, iron and black pepper. Vibrant and juicy, with a medium to full body and fine-grained tannins. Lots of energy, with a long, long finish. 95% tempranillo and 5% graciano. Still quite young. Drink or hold.

94 Points –Jeb Dunnuck: In previous vintages of the 2017 Vina Arana Gran Reserva, the producer used to blend Tempranillo with 5% Mazuelo. Now its 5% Graciano with 95% Tempranillo, aged three years in older American oak. The process delivers refined tannins and a classic structure of integrated fruit, acidity, and medium-bodied power with a lasting, gravelly mineral profile. Age 15-20 years.

94 Points – Vinous: The 2017 Gran Reserva Via Arana is 95% Tempranillo and 5% Graciano from Rioja Alta. It presents a sun-kissed profile, with moderately intense red fruit and balsamic wood aromas complemented by toffee, mild mushroom and background oak before cherry emerges later. Dry and taut with a fine-grained texture, it delivers persistent flavor with a touch of tannic grip reflecting the vintage’s short cycle following a spring frost.