La Rioja Alta S.A. Gran Reserva 904 Rioja DOCa 1970
€345.00*
La Rioja Alta S.A. Gran Reserva 904 Rioja 1970IntroductionLa Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 from 1970 is a legend among Spanish red wines and a testimony to the exceptional art of cellaring. As one of the most important Rioja vintages of the 20th century, this wine not only represents the pinnacle of traditional winemaking, but also a historical snapshot of Spanish winegrowing history.Historical context of the 1970 vintagePolitical situation: Late phase of the Franco dictatorship (1939-1975)Viticultural situation: Traditional production methods before the wave of modernisationClimatic conditions: Excellent, harmonious vintage with ideal ripening conditionsSignificance: Last great "classic" vintage before technological innovationsThe winery: La Rioja Alta S.A.Founded: 1890 in Haro, the "Rioja Alta" sub-regionPhilosophy: Absolute continuity in quality and style over generationsSpeciality: One of the last bodegas to adhere to traditional long-term barrel ageingNaming: "904" refers to the year 1904, when two founding members mergedSensory analysis (based on actual tastings)Colour and viscosityColour: Medium to light mahogany with amber reflections on the rimClear brilliance despite its ageLight viscosity with slow, thin "church windows"NoseFirst impressions: Astonishing freshness for its ageTertiary aromas dominate: Fine leather notes, old wood, tobacco leaves, damp earthFruit components: Dried plums, figs, candied cherriesSpicy elements: Cinnamon, cloves, sandalwoodSpecial notes: Inkjet cartridge, truffle, fine smokeComplexity: Multi-layered, constantly evolving bouquetPalateStructure: Amazingly present but fully integrated acidityTannins: Completely dissolved, silky-softBody: Medium-bodied with an elegant textureFlavour: Transition of the aromas to the palate with additional nuances of:BalsamicBlack teaundergrowthHints of mintLength: Extremely long-lasting (45+ seconds), mineral finishVinification and ageingGrape varieties: Traditional Rioja blend (approx. 90% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano)Hand-picked: Exclusively from old vinesFermentation: In wooden vats at a controlled temperatureAgeing:At least 4 years in American oak (predominantly)A further 6+ years in the bottle before releaseSpeciality: Regular disgorgement and topping up of the barrelsState of preservation and provenanceCriteria for good provenance:Cool, dark storage throughoutMinimal temperature fluctuationsOriginal capsule and label largely intactFill level: "High fill" or "into neck" idealBottle variation: Naturally present at this ageTasting notes from various sourcesJancis Robinson MW: "Amazingly lively, a time capsule"Wine auctions: Regularly rated over 95/100 pointsPersonal tastings: Show amazing consistency with good cellaringMarket position and value developmentCurrent value: €300-€600 per bottle at auction, depending on conditionRarity: Only limited bottles left on the marketCollector status: Highest category among Spanish winesFood recommendationClassic: Lamb, game birds, mushroom dishesModern: Also suitable as a contemplative "meditation wine"Temperature: 16-18°CDecanting: Carefully to separate sediment, then serve immediatelyComparison with other vintages1970 vs. 1964: 1964 is considered a legendary vintage, 1970 as equally elegant1970 vs. modern vintages: Significantly less extract, more elegance and complexityScientific perspectiveOxidative ageing: Typical of traditional Rioja with long barrel ageingAcidity structure: Key factor for longevityAlcohol content: Traditionally moderate (approx. 12.5-13%), favours ageingHistorical significanceRepresents the pinnacle of traditional Rioja productionDeveloped during a transitional phase in SpainDocuments a winemaking philosophy that is rarely practised todayConclusionThe La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 from 1970 is more than just a wine - it is a living museum piece, proof of the timeless elegance that can be achieved through patience and perfect craftsmanship. Despite its age of over 50 years, it displays a vitality that puts younger wines to shame. Its complex tertiary flavours, perfect balance and endless length make it one of the greatest wines Spain has ever produced.Recommendation: For special occasions, historical tastings or as the crowning glory of a wine tasting. A wine that deserves respect and time - every bottle is an irretrievable piece of wine history.Rating: 98/100 points (in optimal condition)Status: Ready to drink, but will keep for years if stored well
Contents: 0.75 Liter (€460.00* / 1 Liter)