La Rioja Alta Rioja Gran Reserva 890 1998

94 points Neal Martin (Wine Advocate): "The 1998 Gran Reserva 890 is more or less the same blend and vinification as the 1995 with just a little more alcohol (13%). It has impressive intensity on the nose with lifted dark cherry and briary notes. It has very fine delineation with aromas of licorice and orange rind. The palate is very well-balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity and lively fresh citrus fresh fruit: small red cherries intermingling with orange zest, marmalade and cassis. It will need several years before it reaches its drinking plateau, but patently has great potential. Drink 2015-2025+ Finally, I was poured two mature vintages from their scant reserves. (08/30/12)."

17 points Jancis Robinson: ": "This is made more rarely than the 904 – just three or four times a decade. And only to the tune of about 25,000 bottles as opposed to 120,000 bottles of 904 (which is remarkable)! 95% Tempranillo, 3% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo (Carignan) – all 40+ years old. Six years' barrel ageing and a total of 12 rackings. Deep ruby with a pale rim. Rich, savoury, animal nose. Much less drive than the 904. Chewy finish and a tad rustic. Not so much my style as the 904 – a bit earthy and gritty with more obvious sweetness and ripeness. But it certainly isn't heavy in the greater Rioja scheme of things. I suspect it will long have quite noticeable tannins. It doesn't have the purity of the 904 but it would be wonderful for someone looking for sheer impact. Drink 2014-2030." (06/20/14)."