Grape Masters S02E04 – La Rioja Alta S.A., Rioja.
We are proud to share the fourth episode of Season 2 of Grape Masters, featuring one of Spain’s most celebrated family-run wineries: La Rioja Alta S.A.
Located in the iconic Barrio de la Estación in Haro, La Rioja Alta S.A. stands as a pillar of classic Rioja—founded in 1890 and still family-owned today. In this episode, we sit down with Guillermo de Aranzabal Bittner, sixth-generation family member and next in line to lead the estate, for a wide-ranging conversation about legacy, innovation, and the future of Rioja.
From their candlelit barrel rackings to their embrace of cutting-edge technology, this episode unpacks how La Rioja Alta S.A. combines timeless tradition with a forward-looking philosophy.
Highlights from the Episode
- A century in the making – how La Rioja Alta S.A. has evolved across six generations while staying rooted in family ownership.
- Craft with precision – from optical grape sorting to manually racked barrels, we dive into the details that define their meticulous approach.
- The meaning of classic – why La Rioja Alta S.A. considers itself an “avant-garde classic,” blending heritage with subtle innovation.
- A standout wine – we taste the Gran Reserva 904 Selección Especial 2015, a rare and elegant expression of Rioja.
- The broader picture – exploring the group’s ventures in Ribera del Duero, Rías Baixas, and Rioja Alavesa.
Classic Rioja, Reimagined
La Rioja Alta S.A. isn’t just preserving Rioja tradition—they’re quietly redefining it. Whether through microchipped barrels, long-aged Albariño, or terroir-driven expressions from Rioja Alavesa, this is a winery that embraces progress without losing its soul.
As Guillermo shares in our conversation, true legacy is built slowly, with care and purpose—and the results are found in every bottle.
Tune in Now!
Season 2, Episode 4 of Grape Masters is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, through RSS Feed and all major platforms. Be sure to subscribe and follow us to stay up to date with the latest stories from the world’s most inspiring wineries.
Read More
Click here for our in-depth article on La Rioja Alta S.A., including a review of the wine we shared with Guillermo: the 2015 Gran Reserva 904.
La Rioja Alta S.A. is imported and sold in the Netherlands through Anfors Imperial. We extend our thanks to Guillermo de Aranzabal Bittner and Samuel Fernandez for their time and collaboration on this episode.
Photo credits: Dutch Wine Apprentice and La Rioja Alta S.A.
