‘Best ever’ Selección Especial from La Rioja Alta released

The 2005 vintage of La Rioja Alta’s Gran Reserva 890 ‘Selección Especial’ – considered the estate’s “top wine” – has been released in the UK.

With only three releases a decade on average, the release of the 2005 has been much anticipated.

James Snoxell, head of buying at La Rioja Alta’s UK agent Armit Wines, said: “As one of Spain’s greatest and most age-worthy wines we are always excited to taste the new release of 890 from La Rioja Alta and it is clear that the 2005 is set to be a vintage that goes down in history.

“Already expected to rival 1964, which is widely recognised as the best ever Rioja vintage, the winery waited 13 years for the wine to be ready to drink before unveiling this milestone release and we are proud to launch the already critically acclaimed 890 to our customers.”

A blend of 95% Tempranillo, 3% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo, the wine was matured for six years in barrel before being bottled in 2012 and then aged in the estate’s cellars ever since.

Winemaker Julio Sáenz commented: “We are delighted with the 890 2005 and truly believe this to be one of the best wines that we have ever produced.

“Not only were the vintage conditions outstanding as recognised by the Consejo, but 2005 also marked the launch of major improvements in our harvesting system which lead to a major leap in the quality of all of the wines, especially the Gran Reservas. It was an honour to give this wine a Seleccíon Especial label, and we are looking forward to enjoying it now and for many decades to come.”

The wine will be offered in the UK on 23 January for £465 for a case of six in bond – but only for a limited period. The wine will be shipped in spring this year.