What to Buy
Welcome to Cru World Wine, the world's leading platform for fine wine and spirits, where you can find an extensive selection of wines from both old and new world regions. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wine, we have something for everyone.
For those who are looking for a no-brainer sweet bargain, we have a range of affordable wines that are perfect for everyday drinking and entertaining. These wines offer great value for money without compromising on quality.
If you are looking to invest in fine wines, we have a selection of investment recommendations that are sure to impress. Our team of experts carefully curates these wines based on their potential for future appreciation and their historical track record of increasing in value.
For those who are looking for something unique and different, we offer a range of wines that are hard to find anywhere else. From rare vintages to obscure varietals, we have something for the adventurous wine drinker.
No matter what your taste preferences or budget, our platform offers a diverse selection of wines that are sure to satisfy you. So why wait? Start browsing our selection today and discover your next favorite bottle.
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What to Buy
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Jeb Dunnuck (93)
From the talented Nicolas Thienpont, the 2019 Château La Prade sports a deep ruby/purple color to go with a great nose of spicy dark fruits, damp earth, and violet. Wonderfully pure, medium-bodied, elegant, and seamless on the palate, it's easily the finest vintage of this cuvée I've tasted. It's going to drink brilliantly for 10-12 years.Inc. VAT£217.90 -
(12x75cl) 2016Experience La Raison d'Hetre 2016, a majestic embodiment of Château Peybonhomme-Les-Tours craftsmanship from Bordeaux, France. This elegant blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec is organically farmed and biodynamically produced, following the rigorous standards set by Demeter and Biodyvin. The wine’s intensity is attributed to the estate's proximity to the Gironde estuary, which fosters perfect growing conditions. The vinification process, carried out in concrete tanks and then aged in oak for 12 months, ensures balance and character. La Raison d'Hetre 2016 boasts an opulent ruby hue, emanating aromas of dark fruits paired with soft tannins resulting in harmonious flavours reminiscent of undergrowth fruits, spices and tobacco. The producer, the Hubert family, since the 19th century, is known for crafting voluptuous wines that capture the true spirit of French viticulture. With every sip of La Raison d'Hetre 2016, one uncovers layers of complexity and brilliance, cementing its revered position in fine wine circle.
Inc. VAT£267.34 -
(6x150cl) 2017Our exquisite choice of La Raison d'Hetre 2017 emanates from the esteemed vineyards of Bordeaux, France. The skillfully crafted wine is predominantly Merlot accompanied by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in French oak barrels, subsequently translating to an unmatched depth of flavour; a true testament to the Winemaker's artistry. The producer, Château de Malleret, with decades of viticultural expertise, took advantage of the excellent climatic conditions in 2017 to gift us this remarkable vintage.
La Raison d'Hetre 2017 exudes a rich, velvety palate that is a sensual delight, offering an alluring bouquet of blackberries and truffles. It showcases a pleasing, well-balanced structure with tannins that are both powerful and silky. The finish is long and sophisticated, making this wine a splendid accompaniment to a well-curated cheese board or expertly prepared red meat dishes. Saturated in complexity, with each sip of La Raison d'Hetre 2017, one uncovers layers of taste and aroma inviting prolonged savouring.
Inc. VAT£256.87 -
(6x75cl) 2020Discover the world of exceptional wine with La Raison d'Hetre 2020. Produced in Bordeaux, France, this wine is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, originating from a vineyard renowned for its favourable climate and uniquely diverse soil composition. The detailed featuring of micro-climates across the vineyard renders a complex, multifaceted appeal to this luxurious libation.
Maturation for La Raison d'Hetre 2020 undergoes a meticulous process in oak barrels for up to twelve months, imparting intricate woody notes of vanilla and toast to the rich, black fruit flavours that define this exceptional vintage. This oversight organically nurtures the intrinsic character of the wine, lending it a harmonious balance and depth.
The producer, Château Haut-Bergey, bestows upon it a centuries-worn legacy of excellence and tradition, making La Raison d'Hetre 2020 an impeccable choice for sophisticated wine connoisseurs searching for the epitome of Bordeaux indulgence.
Inc. VAT£209.14 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (90)
The 2010 Réserve de Léoville Barton offers loam-infused black fruit on the nose, touches of smoke and tobacco emerging with time, overtly classic in style. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins that frame the bright red and black fruit. Very harmonious with quite a persistent minty finish, it is not terribly complex but is charming and conveys an effortless quality. Recommended. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.Inc. VAT£99.20 -
(12x75cl) 2019Jeb Dunnuck (91)
A total charmer with plenty of up-front appeal, the 2019 La Réserve De Léoville Barton offers up lots of red and black currants, cedar pencil, leafy herbs, and a touch of spring flowers in a more medium-bodied, nicely balanced, fleshy, and forward style. It will keep for 10-12 years.Inc. VAT£383.21 -
Jeb Dunnuck (91)
A total charmer with plenty of up-front appeal, the 2019 La Réserve De Léoville Barton offers up lots of red and black currants, cedar pencil, leafy herbs, and a touch of spring flowers in a more medium-bodied, nicely balanced, fleshy, and forward style. It will keep for 10-12 years.Inc. VAT£503.21 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (89)
The 2020 La Réserve de Léoville Barton has a crisp blackberry, tobacco and slight minty bouquet with impressive harmony. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-chiseled tannins, not deep or concentrated, yet showing much more precision than the La Réserves that I used to taste a decade ago. Classy.Inc. VAT£293.60 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (89)
The 2020 La Réserve de Léoville Barton has a crisp blackberry, tobacco and slight minty bouquet with impressive harmony. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-chiseled tannins, not deep or concentrated, yet showing much more precision than the La Réserves that I used to taste a decade ago. Classy.Inc. VAT£503.21 -
(12x75cl) 2017Vinous - Neal Martin (87)
The 2017 La Réserve de Malartic has a simple but not unattractive nose with brambly red berry fruit mixed with brown spices, hoisin and sandalwood. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly rustic tannins, although the middle and finish has sufficient earthy red fruit to keep everything balanced. My only quibble: it cuts away too swiftly on the finish.Inc. VAT£265.78 -
(12x75cl) 2018Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2018 La Réserve de Malartic-Lagravière is a very pretty, fruity wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Hints of iron, cedar, tobacco, mint and dried herbs add an attractive, savory touch. There is, in my view, a bit too much oak that is felt in the slightly aggressive tannins, but that won't be an issue if the 2018 is enjoyed over the next handful of years.Inc. VAT£264.58 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2018 La Réserve de Malartic-Lagravière is a very pretty, fruity wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Hints of iron, cedar, tobacco, mint and dried herbs add an attractive, savory touch. There is, in my view, a bit too much oak that is felt in the slightly aggressive tannins, but that won't be an issue if the 2018 is enjoyed over the next handful of years.Inc. VAT£289.61 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2018 La Réserve de Malartic-Lagravière is a very pretty, fruity wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Hints of iron, cedar, tobacco, mint and dried herbs add an attractive, savory touch. There is, in my view, a bit too much oak that is felt in the slightly aggressive tannins, but that won't be an issue if the 2018 is enjoyed over the next handful of years.Inc. VAT£158.09 -
(6x75cl) 2005Tim Atkin MW (98)
Made with grapes from some of the winery’s oldest parcels in Brinas, Labastida and Villaba this really is one of the best 890s ever. Blending Tempranillo with 3% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo, it combines the grace and elegance of a great Musigny with the sweetness, focus and balance of a classic Rioja. Scented, complex and very long. 2017-30Inc. VAT£778.32 -
Tim Atkin MW (98)
The superlative 2010 release is the first 890 Gran Reserva since 2005, and it was definitely worth the wait. Partnering Tempranillo with 3% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo, it has a wonderful combination of structure, sweetness and focus. Aromatic spices, red berry fruit and top notes of tobacco and fresh leather are underpinned by age-worthy tannins and refreshing acidity. One to keep.Inc. VAT£989.15 -
(6x75cl) 2004Wine Advocate (96)
The 2004 Gran Reserva 904 is Tempranillo from Brinas, Labastida and Villalba balanced with 10% Graciano from Briones and Rodezno. The grapes were fermented and macerated in inox vats for 14 days at 28º C, and malolactic fermentation lasted 28 days. The wine aged for 4 years in used American oak barrels averaging 4 years old, during which time it was manually racked 8 times. 150,000 bottles were filled. This 2004, from a superb vintage shows a beautiful light red color with a brick rim and a superb nose redolent of balsamic woods, spices, leather, well-hung meat, incense and truffles. The light to medium-bodied palate shows fully resolved tannins, great acidity and pure, pungent flavors that linger in the mouth forever and that can only be Rioja. This is a wine to smell over and over again. It might sound like an exaggeration, but this wine is still too young and you should wait a little bit and drink the superb 2001 vintage which should still be available on the market while this one matures in bottle. At this quality level the price is superb especially considering that the wine is being released 10 years after the vintage. Drink 2016-2024.Inc. VAT£482.29 -
(6x75cl) 2005Wine Advocate (96)
The 2005 Gran Reserva 904 is a superb blend of Tempranillo from the villages of Briñas, Labastida and Villalba with 10% Graciano from Briones and Rodezno. The grapes were destemmed and crushed and fermented in stainless steel for 18 days at 25 C. Malolactic fermentation was spontaneous and lasted 38 days. These wines are marked by a long aging in used American oak barrels following the most strict Riojan tradition; four years during which time the wine was manually racked eight times. This is usually my favorite wine from La Rioja Alta and 2005 is one of its best showings, going back to the quality of the vintages of the 1950s and 60s. The nose is very balsamic with notes of camphor, hints of mint, leather and hung game wrapped around a core of cherries in liqueur. Together it is balanced, subtle, truly elegant and classical. The palate is only medium-bodied but with great concentration of flavors that are very tasty, mineral, almost salty and framed by ultra-fine tannins and smashing balance. A great classic. This wine will be released in October 2015, a full ten years after the vintage. At this quality level this is a bargain. 150,000 bottles produced.Inc. VAT£574.32 -
(1x75cl) 2007Wine Advocate (95)
If Viña Ardanza seems to be going fast, the Gran Reserva 904 is even faster and we're now on the 2007 Gran Reserva 904. This wants to be the classic Gran Reserva--polished, silky and elegant, with aging potential. It is a blend of Tempranillo with 10% Mazuelo aged for four years in well-seasoned American oak barrels, with eight manual rackings. I found that the freshness of the vintage and its relatively young age gave the wine a youngish character that I loved, combining developed notes of meat, spices, leather and balsam with almost cherry-like aromas. The palate feels balanced and elegant, with fine-grained and fully resolved tannins and great acidity. This vintage of 904 surprised me! 150,000 bottles produced.Inc. VAT£118.40 -
(6x75cl) 2009James Suckling (97)
This is a driven and super tight Gran Reserva with dark berries and hints of spice and cedar. A spicy red-pepper undertone and some dried flowers. Full to medium body, integrated tannins and a superb finish. A great wine. Available in September 2018. A wine for the cellar, but why wait?Inc. VAT£409.92 -
James Suckling (96)
Lovely dried red fruit, such as plums with just a hint of prunes. Cedar, walnut and leather undertones. Full-bodied with lots of fruit, considering its age, as well as hints of smoke, tobacco, bark and black tea. Some balsamic at the finish. Traditionally styled with lovely results. Drink or hold.Inc. VAT£322.78 -
James Suckling (97)
A perfumed nose of plums, mulberries, mushrooms, caramel, sweet tobacco and sweet spices. Full-bodied with velvety, fine tannins and lively acidity. Balanced and supple with a creamy texture. Delicate and precise with a long, polished finish. 90% tempranillo and 10% graciano. Drink or hold.Inc. VAT£391.18 -
Vinous (93)
Dark ruby. A deeply perfumed bouquet evokes spice-tinged dark fruit preserves, potpourri, vanilla and incense, and a smoky mineral overtone builds as the wine opens up. Sappy and broad on the palate, offering weighty blackberry, cherry-vanilla and spicecake flavors that turn spicier with air. Shows excellent precision on the persistent finish, which features sweet dark fruit liqueur and floral elements and harmonious tannins.Inc. VAT£336.72 -
Tim Atkin MW (94)
La Rioja Alta is one of the most traditional wineries in Haro’s Barrio de la Estación, famous for producing wines that are good to drink on release, but also age beautifully in bottle. This new Gran Reserva, made from Tempranillo with 6% Graciano for added backbone, is very much a reflection of the cooler, more “Atlantic” 2014 vintage. La Rioja Alta didn’t make its top two Gran Reservas – 904 and 890 – in 2014, so all of its best grapes were used for Viña Arana. Fine and elegant, with vibrant acidity, notes of coconut and cinnamon from the American oak and a core of savoury, refreshing tobacco leaf and red berry flavours framed by fine, caressing tannins. Old-fashioned Rioja at its glorious best.Inc. VAT£237.58 -
Decanter (96)
Beautiful nose coconut cream, vanilla and mocha nose. Smooth and mellow on the rich and velvety palate with lots of sweet spices, dates and chocolate-covered currants. Long-lasting and utterly delicious.Inc. VAT£225.58 -
Wine Anorak (95)
This is wonderfully aromatic and completely classic, with sweet strawberry and cherry fruit with some coconut and vanilla blending in well. There’s a sweet core of fruit on the palate with red and black cherry, some stewed plum and strawberry, as well as fine spices and a slight chalkiness to the layered texture. Mellow and refined, this is benchmark Gran Reserva Rioja, and is drinking perfectly now although it will develop beautifully over the next couple of decades. The balance is perfect.Inc. VAT£521.95 -
Wine Anorak (95)
This is wonderfully aromatic and completely classic, with sweet strawberry and cherry fruit with some coconut and vanilla blending in well. There’s a sweet core of fruit on the palate with red and black cherry, some stewed plum and strawberry, as well as fine spices and a slight chalkiness to the layered texture. Mellow and refined, this is benchmark Gran Reserva Rioja, and is drinking perfectly now although it will develop beautifully over the next couple of decades. The balance is perfect.Inc. VAT£260.38 -
Wine Advocate (93)
The 2001 Vina Ardanza Reserva Especial is a blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha from their vineyards in Fuenmayor and Rioja Baja respectively and it represents only the third vintage to be declared after 1964 and 1973. Aged in American cask for 36 months, it has a bucolic, natural bouquet of bright red cherries, balsamic, mint and a touch of dried honey all with superb delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with wonderful delineation and supple, lithe tannins. The acidity is very well judged and it leads to a pert, tense finish of bitter cherry, loganberry and licorice. This is an outstanding wine drinking perfectly now, but it should age effortlessly. Drink now-2030.Inc. VAT£116.52 -
(6x150cl) 2007Wine Advocate (94)
The 2007 Viña Ardanza Reserva is a blend of Tempranillo with 20% Garnacha, the Tempranillo from 30-year-old vineyards La Cuesta and Montecillo in the villages of Fuenmayor and Cenicero, and the Garnacha from old head-pruned vines at 600 meters altitude in Tudelilla, in Rioja Baja, from plots next to their Finca La Pedriza. Those should soon be mature enough to go into the wine (they were planted in 2004 and they will make it into the Ardanza blend from 2007-2008). The grapes are fermented separately with natural yeasts and the Tempranillo then matured in American oak barrels averaging four years old for 36 months, while the Garnacha matured in second- and third-use American oak barrels for 30 months. The nose is very fresh, with notes of beef blood, iron, cherries in liqueur, some subtle leather and spices plus notes of autumn forest and truffles. The palate is more lively and has some tannins that would feel better integrated with some food or a little bit of time in bottle It was bottled in November 2011. This will be released around September/October 2015, so by the time it hits the shelves it will be more polished. Great value for money. 600,000 bottles were produced.Inc. VAT£618.24 -
(12x75cl) 2010Vinous (96)
The 2010 Viña Ardanza Selección Especial Rioja Reserva is an absolute blinder. The blend comprises 80% Tempranillo from the La Cuesta and Montecillo vineyards and 20% Grenache from the La Pedriza vineyard in Rioja Baja. It was picked mid-October, aged for 36 months in four-year-old American oak (six months less for the Grenache) and bottled in 2015. It was so highly regarded by the team at La Rioja Alta that they deemed it “Selección Especial” instead of “Reserva Especial.” The bouquet is like an old friend inviting you into their home. Crushed strawberry, leather and a touch of game are all beautifully defined, and after an hour the nose became increasingly Burgundy in style. That Burgundy theme translates across to a palate that is supremely well balanced and so harmonious that it was almost too easy to drink. There are hints of chestnut and shavings of black truffle on a finish that fans out gently. This is a finely crafted and irresistible Rioja Reserva from one of the region’s best producers, and frankly, I will not taste a bottle that represents better value for money than this: cases of 12 at just over £200 in bond.Inc. VAT£422.64 -
Vinous (94)
Deep magenta. An intensely perfumed bouquet evokes ripe black raspberry, cherry cola, potpourri, tobacco and exotic spices, plus a smoky mineral flourish. Sweet and broad in the mouth, offering lush red and blue fruit, spicecake, mocha and coconut flavors that firm up on the back half. Finishes extremely long and spicy, with resonating florality, gently chewy tannins and lingering oak spice notes.Inc. VAT£356.35
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Jeb Dunnuck (93)
From the talented Nicolas Thienpont, the 2019 Château La Prade sports a deep ruby/purple color to go with a great nose of spicy dark fruits, damp earth, and violet. Wonderfully pure, medium-bodied, elegant, and seamless on the palate, it's easily the finest vintage of this cuvée I've tasted. It's going to drink brilliantly for 10-12 years.In Bond£143.00 -
(12x75cl) 2016
Experience La Raison d'Hetre 2016, a majestic embodiment of Château Peybonhomme-Les-Tours craftsmanship from Bordeaux, France. This elegant blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec is organically farmed and biodynamically produced, following the rigorous standards set by Demeter and Biodyvin. The wine’s intensity is attributed to the estate's proximity to the Gironde estuary, which fosters perfect growing conditions. The vinification process, carried out in concrete tanks and then aged in oak for 12 months, ensures balance and character. La Raison d'Hetre 2016 boasts an opulent ruby hue, emanating aromas of dark fruits paired with soft tannins resulting in harmonious flavours reminiscent of undergrowth fruits, spices and tobacco. The producer, the Hubert family, since the 19th century, is known for crafting voluptuous wines that capture the true spirit of French viticulture. With every sip of La Raison d'Hetre 2016, one uncovers layers of complexity and brilliance, cementing its revered position in fine wine circle.
In Bond£190.72 -
(6x150cl) 2017
Our exquisite choice of La Raison d'Hetre 2017 emanates from the esteemed vineyards of Bordeaux, France. The skillfully crafted wine is predominantly Merlot accompanied by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in French oak barrels, subsequently translating to an unmatched depth of flavour; a true testament to the Winemaker's artistry. The producer, Château de Malleret, with decades of viticultural expertise, took advantage of the excellent climatic conditions in 2017 to gift us this remarkable vintage.
La Raison d'Hetre 2017 exudes a rich, velvety palate that is a sensual delight, offering an alluring bouquet of blackberries and truffles. It showcases a pleasing, well-balanced structure with tannins that are both powerful and silky. The finish is long and sophisticated, making this wine a splendid accompaniment to a well-curated cheese board or expertly prepared red meat dishes. Saturated in complexity, with each sip of La Raison d'Hetre 2017, one uncovers layers of taste and aroma inviting prolonged savouring.
In Bond£182.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Discover the world of exceptional wine with La Raison d'Hetre 2020. Produced in Bordeaux, France, this wine is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, originating from a vineyard renowned for its favourable climate and uniquely diverse soil composition. The detailed featuring of micro-climates across the vineyard renders a complex, multifaceted appeal to this luxurious libation.
Maturation for La Raison d'Hetre 2020 undergoes a meticulous process in oak barrels for up to twelve months, imparting intricate woody notes of vanilla and toast to the rich, black fruit flavours that define this exceptional vintage. This oversight organically nurtures the intrinsic character of the wine, lending it a harmonious balance and depth.
The producer, Château Haut-Bergey, bestows upon it a centuries-worn legacy of excellence and tradition, making La Raison d'Hetre 2020 an impeccable choice for sophisticated wine connoisseurs searching for the epitome of Bordeaux indulgence.
In Bond£153.61 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (90)
The 2010 Réserve de Léoville Barton offers loam-infused black fruit on the nose, touches of smoke and tobacco emerging with time, overtly classic in style. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins that frame the bright red and black fruit. Very harmonious with quite a persistent minty finish, it is not terribly complex but is charming and conveys an effortless quality. Recommended. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.In Bond£80.00 -
(12x75cl) 2019
Jeb Dunnuck (91)
A total charmer with plenty of up-front appeal, the 2019 La Réserve De Léoville Barton offers up lots of red and black currants, cedar pencil, leafy herbs, and a touch of spring flowers in a more medium-bodied, nicely balanced, fleshy, and forward style. It will keep for 10-12 years.In Bond£278.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (91)
A total charmer with plenty of up-front appeal, the 2019 La Réserve De Léoville Barton offers up lots of red and black currants, cedar pencil, leafy herbs, and a touch of spring flowers in a more medium-bodied, nicely balanced, fleshy, and forward style. It will keep for 10-12 years.In Bond£378.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (89)
The 2020 La Réserve de Léoville Barton has a crisp blackberry, tobacco and slight minty bouquet with impressive harmony. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-chiseled tannins, not deep or concentrated, yet showing much more precision than the La Réserves that I used to taste a decade ago. Classy.In Bond£224.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (89)
The 2020 La Réserve de Léoville Barton has a crisp blackberry, tobacco and slight minty bouquet with impressive harmony. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-chiseled tannins, not deep or concentrated, yet showing much more precision than the La Réserves that I used to taste a decade ago. Classy.In Bond£378.00 -
(12x75cl) 2017
Vinous - Neal Martin (87)
The 2017 La Réserve de Malartic has a simple but not unattractive nose with brambly red berry fruit mixed with brown spices, hoisin and sandalwood. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly rustic tannins, although the middle and finish has sufficient earthy red fruit to keep everything balanced. My only quibble: it cuts away too swiftly on the finish.In Bond£183.00 -
(12x75cl) 2018
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2018 La Réserve de Malartic-Lagravière is a very pretty, fruity wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Hints of iron, cedar, tobacco, mint and dried herbs add an attractive, savory touch. There is, in my view, a bit too much oak that is felt in the slightly aggressive tannins, but that won't be an issue if the 2018 is enjoyed over the next handful of years.In Bond£182.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2018 La Réserve de Malartic-Lagravière is a very pretty, fruity wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Hints of iron, cedar, tobacco, mint and dried herbs add an attractive, savory touch. There is, in my view, a bit too much oak that is felt in the slightly aggressive tannins, but that won't be an issue if the 2018 is enjoyed over the next handful of years.In Bond£200.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2018 La Réserve de Malartic-Lagravière is a very pretty, fruity wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Hints of iron, cedar, tobacco, mint and dried herbs add an attractive, savory touch. There is, in my view, a bit too much oak that is felt in the slightly aggressive tannins, but that won't be an issue if the 2018 is enjoyed over the next handful of years.In Bond£112.50 -
(6x75cl) 2005
Tim Atkin MW (98)
Made with grapes from some of the winery’s oldest parcels in Brinas, Labastida and Villaba this really is one of the best 890s ever. Blending Tempranillo with 3% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo, it combines the grace and elegance of a great Musigny with the sweetness, focus and balance of a classic Rioja. Scented, complex and very long. 2017-30In Bond£630.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (98)
The superlative 2010 release is the first 890 Gran Reserva since 2005, and it was definitely worth the wait. Partnering Tempranillo with 3% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo, it has a wonderful combination of structure, sweetness and focus. Aromatic spices, red berry fruit and top notes of tobacco and fresh leather are underpinned by age-worthy tannins and refreshing acidity. One to keep.In Bond£805.00 -
(6x75cl) 2004
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2004 Gran Reserva 904 is Tempranillo from Brinas, Labastida and Villalba balanced with 10% Graciano from Briones and Rodezno. The grapes were fermented and macerated in inox vats for 14 days at 28º C, and malolactic fermentation lasted 28 days. The wine aged for 4 years in used American oak barrels averaging 4 years old, during which time it was manually racked 8 times. 150,000 bottles were filled. This 2004, from a superb vintage shows a beautiful light red color with a brick rim and a superb nose redolent of balsamic woods, spices, leather, well-hung meat, incense and truffles. The light to medium-bodied palate shows fully resolved tannins, great acidity and pure, pungent flavors that linger in the mouth forever and that can only be Rioja. This is a wine to smell over and over again. It might sound like an exaggeration, but this wine is still too young and you should wait a little bit and drink the superb 2001 vintage which should still be available on the market while this one matures in bottle. At this quality level the price is superb especially considering that the wine is being released 10 years after the vintage. Drink 2016-2024.In Bond£384.00 -
(6x75cl) 2005
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2005 Gran Reserva 904 is a superb blend of Tempranillo from the villages of Briñas, Labastida and Villalba with 10% Graciano from Briones and Rodezno. The grapes were destemmed and crushed and fermented in stainless steel for 18 days at 25 C. Malolactic fermentation was spontaneous and lasted 38 days. These wines are marked by a long aging in used American oak barrels following the most strict Riojan tradition; four years during which time the wine was manually racked eight times. This is usually my favorite wine from La Rioja Alta and 2005 is one of its best showings, going back to the quality of the vintages of the 1950s and 60s. The nose is very balsamic with notes of camphor, hints of mint, leather and hung game wrapped around a core of cherries in liqueur. Together it is balanced, subtle, truly elegant and classical. The palate is only medium-bodied but with great concentration of flavors that are very tasty, mineral, almost salty and framed by ultra-fine tannins and smashing balance. A great classic. This wine will be released in October 2015, a full ten years after the vintage. At this quality level this is a bargain. 150,000 bottles produced.In Bond£460.00 -
(1x75cl) 2007
Wine Advocate (95)
If Viña Ardanza seems to be going fast, the Gran Reserva 904 is even faster and we're now on the 2007 Gran Reserva 904. This wants to be the classic Gran Reserva--polished, silky and elegant, with aging potential. It is a blend of Tempranillo with 10% Mazuelo aged for four years in well-seasoned American oak barrels, with eight manual rackings. I found that the freshness of the vintage and its relatively young age gave the wine a youngish character that I loved, combining developed notes of meat, spices, leather and balsam with almost cherry-like aromas. The palate feels balanced and elegant, with fine-grained and fully resolved tannins and great acidity. This vintage of 904 surprised me! 150,000 bottles produced.In Bond£96.00 -
(6x75cl) 2009
James Suckling (97)
This is a driven and super tight Gran Reserva with dark berries and hints of spice and cedar. A spicy red-pepper undertone and some dried flowers. Full to medium body, integrated tannins and a superb finish. A great wine. Available in September 2018. A wine for the cellar, but why wait?In Bond£323.00 -
James Suckling (96)
Lovely dried red fruit, such as plums with just a hint of prunes. Cedar, walnut and leather undertones. Full-bodied with lots of fruit, considering its age, as well as hints of smoke, tobacco, bark and black tea. Some balsamic at the finish. Traditionally styled with lovely results. Drink or hold.In Bond£249.00 -
James Suckling (97)
A perfumed nose of plums, mulberries, mushrooms, caramel, sweet tobacco and sweet spices. Full-bodied with velvety, fine tannins and lively acidity. Balanced and supple with a creamy texture. Delicate and precise with a long, polished finish. 90% tempranillo and 10% graciano. Drink or hold.In Bond£306.00 -
Vinous (93)
Dark ruby. A deeply perfumed bouquet evokes spice-tinged dark fruit preserves, potpourri, vanilla and incense, and a smoky mineral overtone builds as the wine opens up. Sappy and broad on the palate, offering weighty blackberry, cherry-vanilla and spicecake flavors that turn spicier with air. Shows excellent precision on the persistent finish, which features sweet dark fruit liqueur and floral elements and harmonious tannins.In Bond£262.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (94)
La Rioja Alta is one of the most traditional wineries in Haro’s Barrio de la Estación, famous for producing wines that are good to drink on release, but also age beautifully in bottle. This new Gran Reserva, made from Tempranillo with 6% Graciano for added backbone, is very much a reflection of the cooler, more “Atlantic” 2014 vintage. La Rioja Alta didn’t make its top two Gran Reservas – 904 and 890 – in 2014, so all of its best grapes were used for Viña Arana. Fine and elegant, with vibrant acidity, notes of coconut and cinnamon from the American oak and a core of savoury, refreshing tobacco leaf and red berry flavours framed by fine, caressing tannins. Old-fashioned Rioja at its glorious best.In Bond£178.00 -
Decanter (96)
Beautiful nose coconut cream, vanilla and mocha nose. Smooth and mellow on the rich and velvety palate with lots of sweet spices, dates and chocolate-covered currants. Long-lasting and utterly delicious.In Bond£168.00 -
Wine Anorak (95)
This is wonderfully aromatic and completely classic, with sweet strawberry and cherry fruit with some coconut and vanilla blending in well. There’s a sweet core of fruit on the palate with red and black cherry, some stewed plum and strawberry, as well as fine spices and a slight chalkiness to the layered texture. Mellow and refined, this is benchmark Gran Reserva Rioja, and is drinking perfectly now although it will develop beautifully over the next couple of decades. The balance is perfect.In Bond£395.00 -
Wine Anorak (95)
This is wonderfully aromatic and completely classic, with sweet strawberry and cherry fruit with some coconut and vanilla blending in well. There’s a sweet core of fruit on the palate with red and black cherry, some stewed plum and strawberry, as well as fine spices and a slight chalkiness to the layered texture. Mellow and refined, this is benchmark Gran Reserva Rioja, and is drinking perfectly now although it will develop beautifully over the next couple of decades. The balance is perfect.In Bond£197.00 -
Wine Advocate (93)
The 2001 Vina Ardanza Reserva Especial is a blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha from their vineyards in Fuenmayor and Rioja Baja respectively and it represents only the third vintage to be declared after 1964 and 1973. Aged in American cask for 36 months, it has a bucolic, natural bouquet of bright red cherries, balsamic, mint and a touch of dried honey all with superb delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with wonderful delineation and supple, lithe tannins. The acidity is very well judged and it leads to a pert, tense finish of bitter cherry, loganberry and licorice. This is an outstanding wine drinking perfectly now, but it should age effortlessly. Drink now-2030.In Bond£94.00 -
(6x150cl) 2007
Wine Advocate (94)
The 2007 Viña Ardanza Reserva is a blend of Tempranillo with 20% Garnacha, the Tempranillo from 30-year-old vineyards La Cuesta and Montecillo in the villages of Fuenmayor and Cenicero, and the Garnacha from old head-pruned vines at 600 meters altitude in Tudelilla, in Rioja Baja, from plots next to their Finca La Pedriza. Those should soon be mature enough to go into the wine (they were planted in 2004 and they will make it into the Ardanza blend from 2007-2008). The grapes are fermented separately with natural yeasts and the Tempranillo then matured in American oak barrels averaging four years old for 36 months, while the Garnacha matured in second- and third-use American oak barrels for 30 months. The nose is very fresh, with notes of beef blood, iron, cherries in liqueur, some subtle leather and spices plus notes of autumn forest and truffles. The palate is more lively and has some tannins that would feel better integrated with some food or a little bit of time in bottle It was bottled in November 2011. This will be released around September/October 2015, so by the time it hits the shelves it will be more polished. Great value for money. 600,000 bottles were produced.In Bond£478.00 -
(12x75cl) 2010
Vinous (96)
The 2010 Viña Ardanza Selección Especial Rioja Reserva is an absolute blinder. The blend comprises 80% Tempranillo from the La Cuesta and Montecillo vineyards and 20% Grenache from the La Pedriza vineyard in Rioja Baja. It was picked mid-October, aged for 36 months in four-year-old American oak (six months less for the Grenache) and bottled in 2015. It was so highly regarded by the team at La Rioja Alta that they deemed it “Selección Especial” instead of “Reserva Especial.” The bouquet is like an old friend inviting you into their home. Crushed strawberry, leather and a touch of game are all beautifully defined, and after an hour the nose became increasingly Burgundy in style. That Burgundy theme translates across to a palate that is supremely well balanced and so harmonious that it was almost too easy to drink. There are hints of chestnut and shavings of black truffle on a finish that fans out gently. This is a finely crafted and irresistible Rioja Reserva from one of the region’s best producers, and frankly, I will not taste a bottle that represents better value for money than this: cases of 12 at just over £200 in bond.In Bond£315.00 -
Vinous (94)
Deep magenta. An intensely perfumed bouquet evokes ripe black raspberry, cherry cola, potpourri, tobacco and exotic spices, plus a smoky mineral flourish. Sweet and broad in the mouth, offering lush red and blue fruit, spicecake, mocha and coconut flavors that firm up on the back half. Finishes extremely long and spicy, with resonating florality, gently chewy tannins and lingering oak spice notes.In Bond£257.00
