Altanza Reserva 2016 (Rioja) - Wine Review

Staying in Spain, tonight's red wine review is a delicious vegan-friendly Tempranillo from Rioja that arrived at the LCBO last weekend as part of the July 22 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Bodegas Altanza, one of the leading wineries in the renowned Rioja appellation. Bodegas Altanza was founded in the heart of Rioja, Spain, in 1998 by a group of winegrowers who were committed to producing 100% Tempranillo wines of exceptional quality. The estate, which spans 300 hectares, of which 220 hectares are planted with vines, is situated in the higher elevation town of Fuenmayor, in Rioja Alta. They own and manage their own vineyards, which surround the town of Fuenmayor, in an area that benefits from the region's favourable climate and diverse soils that are ideal for cultivating high-quality Tempranillo grapes.

The name "Atlanza" is a synonym for "quality", and their goal is to offer modern wines with an authentic touch that respects the winemaking traditions of Rioja. Tradition is reflected in the beautiful main building of the winery and its French gardens. Modernity is reflected in their state-of-the-art winery, which has many stainless steel tanks of varying sizes, which allows them to better customize the fermentation process depending on the varietal and style of wine they wish to craft. Each tank is also fitted with a temperature-control jacket and managed by a central control panel. Since their founding, Altanza's goal has been to offer the best quality wines at a competitive price.

The 2016 vintage in Rioja was rated as one of the best in the past two decades. Spring was rainy, while the highest temperatures of the season arrived in June. Temperatures were unusually cool in July, which helped slow down the growing cycle for Tempranillo. August was hot and dry, while September brought some rain that helped prolong the growing season. The wines of 2016 have an ideal balance of acidity, body weight, aromatics, and persistence, as well as lower alcohol levels than in hotter years, producing wines that are fresher and more profound. Let's see how this 2016 Rioja is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

ALTANZA RESERVA 2016 - Vegan, DOCa Rioja, Spain (#208223) (XD) - $23.95
100% Tempranillo that was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, followed by a further 3 months in 22 hL Allier French oak foudres. The medium+ to medium-high intensity nose is savoury with fine oak spices, wet earth, forest floor, and coconut aromas with hints of olive surrounding a core of dark berry and dark cherry fruit. It's medium-full bodied on the dry and spicy palate with delicious dark berry, dark cherry, and blackberry flavours, plus savoury, oak spice, coconut, and earthy flavours. It has fresh, juicy, and succulent acidity, while the lightly grainy tannins are smooth and supple. Very good length on the savoury, oak spiced, and earthy finish. Recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

Other lovely wines by Bodegas Altanza can be found at the LCBO, or ordered through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.