La Rioja Alta is best known for their flagship wine ‘Viña Ardanza’, which was created in 1940 (the winery itself has been in business since 1890.) One of the unique characteristics of ‘Viña Ardanza’ is the amount of Garnacha that goes into the wine, roughly 20% of the blend each year. The Garnacha comes from estate vineyards in Rioja Oriental, a subzone known for having the perfect conditions to grow this variety. Having the great fortune to try the 2019 Ardanza at the estate a couple of weeks ago, it was once again one of my favourites. A unique and perfect harmony was found between the Mediterranean and Atlantic climates that has resulted in a fresh and vibrant Ardanza. For me, this is the finest since the 2010 Selección Especial, although more approachable in its youth. With beautifully refined red berries, vanilla and herbaceous notes, this is a wine that I will be stocking up on.