La Rioja Alta, The Classic Voice of Rioja
La Rioja Alta is celebrated for its dedication to long ageing in American oak, a hallmark of traditional Rioja. The estate’s vineyards, primarily in the Haro and Labastida areas provide Tempranillo of exceptional quality, while Garnacha from Rioja Oriental adds brightness and spice to key blends. This combination of terroir, time and tradition gives La Rioja Alta wines their signature harmony, silky texture and remarkable ability to age gracefully.
La Rioja Alta's Grand Heritage
The winery was founded in 1890 by five Riojan and Basque families, establishing what was then called the Sociedad Vinícola de La Rioja Alta . In 1904, Alfredo Ardanza, one of the founders, merged his own winery with the group, an event commemorated by the creation of the Reserva 1904, which later evolved into the iconic Gran Reserva 904 . Over the decades, La Rioja Alta has remained fiercely traditional, refining its craft while preserving the techniques that made its wines famous. Today, it stands as one of Rioja’s most admired producers, known for consistency, authenticity and timeless style.
The Estate's Approach to Winemaking
La Rioja Alta’s approach centres on long ageing, careful blending and the use of American oak barrels, many of which are crafted in the estate’s own cooperage. Extended maturation often far beyond the legal minimum which allows the wines to develop complexity, finesse and the classic Rioja profile of red fruit, spice, tobacco and gentle oak. This philosophy has earned the winery a loyal global following and a reputation for producing some of the most age‑worthy wines in Spain.
La Rioja Alta Wines
Viña Ardanza is one of Rioja’s most beloved Reservas, a blend traditionally dominated by Tempranillo with a significant portion of Garnacha. It offers vibrant red cherry, sweet spice, vanilla and subtle smokiness, supported by silky tannins and lively acidity. Ardanza is known for its consistency and charm, delivering both immediate pleasure and the ability to age beautifully.
Viña Alberdi is the most approachable of La Rioja Alta’s Reservas, crafted entirely from Tempranillo. It is bright, juicy and expressive, with flavours of red berries, vanilla, coconut and gentle spice from American oak. Alberdi is a perfect introduction to traditional Rioja, offering elegance and freshness in a style that is both versatile and food‑friendly.
Gran Reserva 904 is one of Rioja’s great classics, a wine that embodies the estate’s philosophy of patience and precision. Made primarily from Tempranillo with a touch of Graciano, it is aged extensively to achieve extraordinary finesse. Expect layers of dried cherry, leather, tobacco, cedar and sweet spice, all carried by fine tannins and a long, graceful finish. 904 is crafted for longevity and stands among Spain’s most collectible wines.