Bottled March 2013. 80% Tempranillo (aged in 4-year-old American oak for 36 months) and 20% Garnacha (aged in 2- to 3-year-old American oak for 30 months). Very similar vintage conditions to 2001, which promoted Ardanza to Reserva Especial status – but they decided to keep this as ‘basic’ Reserva because 'the next Especial has to be better than 2001'. First vintage that the fruit has been 100% estate grown. The Garnacha comes from the 100 ha Pedriza vineyard, which has very rocky soil. Smoky, compact, coconut and tea-leaf. Chewy tannin, meaty character on the palate, bright and vibrant – shimmering acidity. Still dense yet not over-extracted – has typicality without cliché – exemplary. Drink 2020-2045.
17.5 Points, Richard Hemming MW

The best classic style of Garnacha and Tempranillo pulling together joyful fruit expression and serious depth. In the mouth it is amazingly complex, and unique. A benchmark Rioja blend.
95 points, Pedro Ballesteros Torres MW 

Savoury notes of Grenache and a lovely Tempranillo structure. Tannins are silky, if beginning to tire.
91 Points, Pedro Ballesteros Torres MW

The nose opens with warm earthy tones. Appealing spice sits alongside dried peel notes and hightoned fruit over a hint of leather The fruit is forward, and a touch juicier than in the past, underpinned by the same spicy notes found on the nose. A keen freshness knits everything together and the balance of this wine is impeccable. Drink from 2017-2030.
Armit Wines 

Outstanding dark-cherry red; intense, bright and clean. The first impression on the nose is of great freshness provided by notes of cherries and blackcurrants knit with notes of black pepper, tobacco, nutmeg, coffee, caramel and vanilla from barrel ageing. Pleasant entry. Tasty, with a soft freshness, nice structure, balanced acidity and fine, elegant tannins. Silky finish, with a lovely aftertaste, where liqueur-like notes of blackcurrants intermingle with toasty notes and sweet spices turning this especial edition of Viña Ardanza into a fine, elegant wine.
La Rioja Alta S.A