James Suckling: 98 Points

Suckling praises its “very impressive complexity and width on the nose,” noting savoury aromas of mushrooms, sandalwood, cedar, and sweet spices. He describes the palate as “even and juicy on the palate with fine and very present tannins” and a “creamy finish lasting a minute.” He calls it a “real Rioja Gran Reserva” and suggests it will evolve well for the next 20 years.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 95+ Points

Luis Gutiérrez notes that time in the bottle has helped to polish the “strong tannins that are the signature from 2015,” but advises that a few more years of cellaring will be beneficial. He describes the wine as “tasty, very classical, balanced and fresh” and “impressive for such a powerful year.”

Tim Atkin MW: 96 Points

Atkin, a renowned expert on Spanish wines, highlights this as a “felicitous cuvée of Temprannillo and 10% Graciano.” He praises its “classic sweet spices, fine tannins, layers of red and black fruits and chalky freshness,” and agrees that it will reward further time in the bottle.

Decanter: 94 Points

The review from Decanter describes an “expressive nose of camphor, vanilla, rose petals and tobacco leaves” over a core of “meaty plum, fig and black olive.” They call it “truly succulent and structured” with “fine and vivid acidity” and suggest it will benefit from a few more years in the bottle to hone its structure.

Wine Spectator: 93 Points

This publication describes the wine as “rich and velvety,” with a complex profile of “mulled cherry, dark chocolate, herbed olive, eucalyptus, iron and milled pepper.” They note its “fine-grained, chalky tannins that are well-meshed.”

In summary, the critics view the La Rioja Alta 904 Gran Reserva Selección Especial 2015 as a brilliant, world-class wine that successfully marries the power of the vintage with the traditional, elegant style of the producer. It is a wine celebrated for its immediate appeal and its profound potential for long-term ageing.