Gran Reserva 904 1985 Gran Reserva Bodegas La Rioja Alta S.A. (Haro, La Rioja) D.O.: RIOJA THE HARVEST: It was an unusual harvest. The vine's vegetative cycle lasted 188 days, with a production of 170 million litres -significantly larger than the average of previous years. A small crop was expected, but in reality the quantity produced has never been achieved before. The wines made from grapes from the higher zones and those from later pickings are superb. The sub-zone of Rioja Alta gave particularly complete wines. Although the official classification of the vintage was "Good", for La Rioja Alta, S.A. it has been the best vintage since the mythical one of 1970. GRAPE VARIETIES: The main variety, comprising approximately 85% of the blend is Tempranillo. The balance is made up of Mazuelo and Graciano. VINEYARDS: All from Rioja Alta, in particular Rodezno, Ollauri, Briñas and Cenicero; the majority from our own vineyard sites. AGEING: 4 months in 100 year old oak vats, 5 years (March '86 to March '91) in American oak barrels, with a total of 10 hand rackings. Bottled in April 1991.