The 2004 La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 is a premium Spanish red wine from the renowned Bodegas La Rioja Alta winery, produced in the classic Rioja style. It is a Gran Reserva, meaning it undergoes extended aging: at least 2 years in American oak barrels followed by 3+ years in bottle before release, resulting in a wine of exceptional elegance and longevity. The blend is predominantly Tempranillo (about 90%), with smaller proportions of Graciano (for structure and acidity) and Mazuelo (for color and tannin). The 2004 vintage in Rioja was excellent, characterized by a cool growing season that produced balanced, concentrated grapes with ripe fruit flavors tempered by freshness. This wine exhibits aromas of dried red fruits (cherry, plum), balsamic notes (vanilla, tobacco), leather, and subtle earthiness. On the palate, it’s medium- to full-bodied with silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and flavors of red berries, spice, and licorice, finishing long and refined. It’s a benchmark for traditional Rioja, emphasizing subtlety over power.
Food Pairings
This wine’s elegant structure and aging potential make it versatile for food, particularly dishes that complement its earthy, fruity profile without overpowering it. Recommended pairings include:
- Roasted or grilled red meats: Lamb chops, beef tenderloin, or venison, seasoned simply to let the wine’s tannins shine.
- Game or poultry: Roasted duck, pheasant, or rabbit with herb sauces.
- Cheese: Aged Manchego, Gouda, or other semi-hard cheeses; it pairs well with nutty, caramelized flavors.
- Vegetarian options: Mushroom risotto, eggplant parmigiana, or tapas like patatas bravas.
- Avoid overly spicy or sweet foods, as they can clash with the wine’s balanced acidity. Serve at 16-18°C (60-65°F) after decanting for 1-2 hours to open up aromas.
Critics’ Reviews
The 2004 vintage received widespread acclaim for its classic Rioja character and aging grace. Key scores and excerpts:
- Robert Parker/Wine Advocate (Jay Miller, 92 points): “The 2004 Gran Reserva 904 is a classic, with a bouquet of scorched earth, tobacco leaf, and red fruits. Medium to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long, elegant finish. Drink now or age further.”
- Wine Spectator (James Suckling, 94 points): “Beautifully balanced, with polished tannins framing a core of black cherry, dried fig, and balsamic notes. Silky texture and great length. A benchmark Gran Reserva.”
- Decanter (94 points): “Elegant and refined, showing evolved aromas of leather and spice over red fruit. Tannins are resolved, with freshness that belies its age. Excellent value for long-term cellaring.”
- James Suckling (93 points): “Ripe blackberry and cherry with hints of vanilla and earth. Full-bodied yet graceful, with a long, flavorful finish.”
- Average score across platforms (e.g., Vivino, CellarTracker): 93-94 points. Critics praise its harmony and ability to improve with time, often comparing it favorably to top vintages like 2001 or 2004 peers from other producers.
Drink Window
The optimal drinking window for the 2004 La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 is now through 2030+, depending on storage conditions. It’s entered its mature phase, where secondary flavors (e.g., leather, earth) are prominent, but it retains enough structure for further evolution. Peak drinking is estimated at 2020-2028, after which it may start to decline slowly. If well-stored (cool, dark, humid cellar), it could last until 2035. Always taste to assess; decant if drinking young.
