TN: 2001 La Rioja Alta "Viña Ardanza" Reserva Especial Rioja

[Greg Mitrakas]

First of a six pack purchased on release. PNP. Ruby center with some lightening towards edge, looks about its age. Not shy on the nose at all; large aromas of bing cherry, iron, and flowers. Oak still noticeable. Palate show a great core of fruit and full bodied, but at the same time, light on its feet with plenty of elegance. The fruit is still very youthful and fresh, with a long finish. A yin and yang wine, in excellent balance. I think its peak is at least 5 years ahead, but plenty tasty now. A pleasant surprise.

[Ramon C]

When LRA wines age, they become special. This looks to be the start.

[P L owet]

Thanks, Greg. I hope this also bodes well for the 2001 904 which was hopefully just way too young when tasted a couple of years ago.
Regards,
Peter

[Justin S]

904 seems to move at a glacial pace based on tasting back to back the 2009 and something from the 1990s.

[Arv R]

That's patient to put these away and not crack the case for all that time!

2001 was a heck of year in the DOC