| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | Spain > Rioja |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
I usually prefer the 904 to the 890, but there will be no Gran Reserva 890 until the 2010 vintage (from the last vintage I tasted, 2005). So, the only one of the extended-aging Haro-style reds I tasted this time was the 2011 Gran Reserva 904, which had a hard act to follow after the 2010 vintage. It's a blend of 89% Tempranillo and 11% Graciano matured in American oak barrels for four years, and it was racked eight times from barrel to barrel during its élevage, which sounds a bit harsh for a vintage like 2011 when the wines were not as complete and robust as in 2010. It has the classic profile, aromas and flavors (decayed leaves, tobacco, sweet spices, a meaty touch and some black fruit), but the oak seems to take a more leading role and the palate feels less juicy. It finishes dry. The final blend was bottled in November 2016, filling 150,000 bottles. 2020-2030
A mid-deep garnet colour, the nose here is rich, savoury and complex, with briary fruits, tanned leather and layers of toasted spices. The palate is pure Rioja - a harmony of game, tobacco, glossy berry fruits and soft, integrated tannins. Cashmere in texture, this is ready to drink already. The fleshy, brambly fruit interlays with notes of mocha and leather through to a fine, long finish. Drink over the next 10 years.
