Established in 1890, Bodegas Riojanas has a long-standing, well-earned reputation as producers of classic,

traditionally-styled Rioja - and is still family-run. Based in Cenicero, in the heart of Rioja Alta, the company

controls 300 hectares in the Alta and Alavesa districts and specialises in Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva

wines. Riojanas have 2 distinct ranges: the Vina Albina wines are the more traditional, quite delicate with

complex, spicy characters from long barrel ageing, and a particularly strong reputation in Spain where it is the

3rd best selling Rioja Reserva. The Monte Real wines, mainly sourced from selected older vineyards around

Cenicero, are richer, more powerful wines with great concentration and the ability to age.

The local soils are Miocene clay-calcareous. Vina

Albina Gran Reserva is made from 80% Tempranillo

grapes, which are hand harvested in October. The

grapes are taken from selected vineyards in Cenicero

and Villalba de Rioja. Bodgeas Riojanas use the

traditional system of pressing whole grapes (with

pneumatic press and de-stalk crusher) before

maceration begins.

Maceration takes place in large stainless steel vats

and lasts for 20-25 days. The must is stirred twice

daily and fermentation is temperature controlled at a

maximum of 28 degrees centigrade. After undergoing

malolactic fermentation the wine is allowed to mature

for 24 - 30 months in American oak casks with

appropriately timed rackings. The wine is then aged

in bottle for a further 3 years before being released.

Perfect with roast meats, particularly lamb.

1999 Vintage: Decanter World Wine Awards 2010 -

Silver

1998 Vintage: IWSC 2007 - Silver

1999 Vintage: "Truffley nose with a savoury game

character. Smooth and integrated fruit on the palate

with a fresh, elegant finish." Decanter World Wine

Awards Judges Comments, Decanter magazine,

October 2010

1998 Vintage: "Medium red. Captivating aromas of

redcurrant, candied cherry, rhubarb, vanilla bean,

cured tobacco, cedar, mocha and dried flowers. An

elegant, suave midweight with wonderfully sweet,

mellow red fruit flavors and an array of exotic spice

accents. The supple, persistent finish features

lingering cherry and red berry flavors. 92/100 points."