Bodegas Ontanon Gran Reserva Rioja DOCa 2011

From the high-altitude vineyards of Rioja Oriental, the 2011 Gran Reserva from Bodegas Ontañón is a benchmark Rioja with depth, elegance, and staying power. A blend of 85% Tempranillo and 15% Graciano from La Pasada Vineyard (700–800m), this wine was aged for 36 months in both French and American oak followed by 24 months in bottle. The result is a beautifully mature wine bursting with aromas of red cherry, dark plum, laurel, and tobacco, underscored by hints of vanilla, cacao, and pine forest. On the palate, it is layered and expressive—showing savory plum, dried herbs, mocha, and fine-grained tannins. A long, harmonious finish completes this classic expression of Rioja’s aging tradition. Drink now or cellar through 2034.

92 points – James Suckling
“Savory, preserved Chinese plums, licorice, old leather and touches of dried oranges and bark. Already softened and well developed, with savory berries, mushrooms and fine-grained tannins. Long, savory finish.”

91 points – Wine Spectator
“There’s a sanguine overtone to this creamy red, with fresh earth and iron accents to the dried cherry, dried cranberry and pomegranate seed fruit flavors. Fresh and lively, with a plush quality to the tannins. Fragrant notes of dried rosemary and smoked paprika linger on the finish.”