La Rioja's Alta's 2x 96 Point Gran Reserva: 2014 La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Arana Gran Reserva from Rioja

In Spain, there is Rioja and then there is La Rioja Alta; the estate that has been producing wine for well over a century and claimed its spot as the benchmark producer of this picturesque region.

The apex of quality in this region is Gran Reserva, which is exactly why I am thrilled to be offering this wine today. Introducing the 2014 La Rioja Alta S.A. Viña Arana Gran Reserva from Rioja, it hits every note you want when drinking a Gran Reserva.

The blend for the 2014 Viña Arana is almost entirely Tempranillo with plenty of spicy red fruits, vanilla bean, dried clove, caramel, and scorched earth flavors that have me continuously reaching back for more. That's probably why James Suckling AND Decanter Magazine each bestowed a 96 point rating to the Gran Reserva.

The house style of La Rioja Alta is fresher than some of the neighboring estates you may be more familiar with. This classic profile gives this wine a nearly unmatchable ability to pair with a diverse range of foods. Instead of needing a thick cut of beef, this wine does well with lighter fare. So as you think about the spring weather just around the corner, this is the perfect bottle for all of your favorite springtime dishes.

This lovely estate is no stranger to press. In 2021 it received the award for being the “World’s Most Admired Wine Brand” from Drinks International. The Viña Arana label routinely receives high critical praise from all the heavy hitters: Suckling, Decanter, and Vinous Media. Stock up on this bottle that's stunning now and it will only improve over the next decade-plus.