There are wines that collectors chase, and then there are wines that define a cellar. La Rioja Alta’s Gran Reserva 890 is firmly in the latter camp — a benchmark of traditional Rioja, a wine that whispers of another era yet still commands the spotlight today. Named for the estate’s founding in 1890, the “890” is only bottled in vintages the winery deems truly exceptional. That makes the 2011 release historic: the first back-to-back 890 following the legendary 2010, a rarity in modern times and a signal that Rioja was firing on all cylinders.
This is Spain at its most collectible. Alongside Vega Sicilia Único and Pingus, the 890 holds its place as one of the top five Spanish trophy wines, sharing the Rioja mantle with López de Heredia’s Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva and Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial. For serious collectors, this is the kind of parcel you don’t hesitate on — direct from the winery via the U.S. import agent, with only a case available.
Viva España!
Critical Acclaim:
98 Points, James Suckling: “2011 is a forgotten vintage after the famous 2010, but you shouldn’t forget it if you are a smart buyer… So savory yet juicy and vibrant, with a long, long finish. So much pleasure here.”
97 Points, James Suckling: “A special wine, newly released from an excellent vintage… Tannins attack the front of the medium-bodied palate and melt, finding an enduring freshness through the midpalate and lengthy finish.”
97 Points, Tim Atkin MW: “An impressive follow-up to the 2010 release… one of the glories of Rioja. Complex, balsamic and appealingly traditional, with layers of clove, leather, tobacco leaf, sweet Asian spices, and wild strawberry fruit.”
96 Points, Wine Advocate: “…Velvety, with fully resolved tannins and a long and very tasty finish.”
95 Points, Vinous Media: “…A classic Rioja of depth and elegance… silky and vibrant, with tension and finely polished tannins that glide across the palate.”
