2006 La Rioja Alta "Vi̱a Arana" Reserva Rioja

The 2006 Vi̱a Arana Reserva is a blend of Tempranillo with 5% Mazuelo (aka Cari̱ena) fermented with natural yeasts and had a slow malolactic fermentation of 56 days after which the wine was put in barrel in July 2007 where they matured for three years being racked every six months before they were bottled in December 2010. It feels like a ripe red, with notes of forest floor, dark cherries, spices and hints of leather, hung game, smoke and toasted notes. The palate is lush, and polished, with a velvety texture and moderate acidity. It is ready to be enjoyed now and able to stand the test of time. And all that at a very good price. 75,000 bottles produced. La Rioja Alta celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2015. Last year, I only tasted three wines from La Rioja Alta and I tasted six this time. The quality is as good as ever, with superb wines from the almost-perfect 2005 vintage coming into the market. Great Rioja, as traditional as it gets, in good quantity and moderate (and often plain great) prices. (LG)