The 2010 La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 890 is a Spanish red wine from the renowned Rioja region. This wine is predominantly made from Tempranillo (95%), with small additions of Graciano (3%) and Mazuelo (2%). It has been aged extensively in used American oak barrels, leading to a complex and mature profile. It is sealed with a traditional cork and boasts an alcohol content of 14%.
Decanter awarded this wine an impressive score of 98, noting its exceptional longevity and complexity. "Since the magic 2001, these wines have acquired an extra layer of concentration, without losing any freshness, and an admirable mastering of oak ageing," Decanter stated. The reviewer also mentioned the potential for price speculation in the coming years, highlighting the wine’s value and collectibility.
James Suckling gave the wine an outstanding score of 99, praising its refined complexity. "This is really refined and complex, with dark mineral, savory berries, mussels, walnuts, sweet spices, truffles, dried oranges, forest floor and cocoa powder," he wrote. Suckling emphasized the wine's "beautiful acidity with vertical and velvety tannins," and described it as "tense, dimensional and very long," recommending it for both immediate enjoyment and extended cellaring.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate rated the wine at 97, emphasizing its classical Rioja Alta style. They highlighted the wine's complex and decadent nose, describing aromas of "forest floor, truffles, cigar ash and cedar wood." The wine’s long aging process, involving six years in oak barrels, was noted for contributing to its developed and silky palate. The Advocate remarked that the 2010 vintage is one of the finest for this wine, stating, "It’s drinkable now but should also age for a very long time."
Wine Spectator gave the wine a score of 95, commending its traditional style and graceful aging. The review noted the integration of "tobacco and loamy earth with firm, sculpted tannins," along with flavors of "plum sauce, dried raspberry, red licorice and espresso." The wine's interplay of flavors was described as "enticing and deft through the long, plush finish," with a recommended drinking window extending through 2035.
In summary, the 2010 La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 890 is a highly acclaimed wine, praised for its complexity, aging potential, and traditional Rioja character. With stellar reviews from top critics, it stands out as a remarkable vintage deserving of attention.