The Artadi domaine was established in 1985 by Juan Carlos Lopez de Lacalle in Laguardia (in the Rioja region). The vineyard consists of 70 hectares of vines and is located at approximately 630 metres above sea level. Artadi earned itself an international reputation in the 1990s and belongs to the group of domaines which have been instrumental in reviving the fortunes of Rioja, notably by adopting more environmentally friendly practices (small organically managed parcels). Its wines stand out on account of their intense fruitiness and the hint of freshness which they owe to altitude, and regularly feature among the top Spanish wines.

Rioja, one of Spain’s most prestigious appellations, is divided into three subregions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Baja and Rioja Alavesa. Grandes Añadas is produced only in the finest vintages, from vines aged 80 to 100 years, which naturally deliver remarkable concentration and complexity. The grapes come from parcels in Rioja Alavesa, a subregion renowned for its limestone, clay-limestone and stony soils. These soils promote optimal ripening and lend finesse and mineral definition to the wine. Manual harvests include a strict selection to retain only the finest fruit. Fermentation takes place in new French oak casks using native yeasts. The wine is then aged for 40 months in new French oak casks, developing structure and complexity.
In the glass, the wine shows an intense, vibrant ruby hue. The nose reveals complex aromas of ripe black fruit, with notes of leather, cedar, graphite and spice. On the palate, a generous, velvety attack opens onto fine tannins and beautiful freshness.