The 2012 La Rioja Alta Viña Arana Gran Reserva, a Tempranillo from the renowned Rioja region of Spain, has received high praise from several prominent wine reviewers. This wine is noted for its depth and balance, with a rich tapestry of flavors and aromas that reflect its classic Rioja roots.

James Suckling awarded this wine a score of 95, highlighting its complexity with notes of "brambleberries, licorice, dried blueberries, cedar, tobacco, smoke, vanilla, dried citrus, and even a hint of grapefruit." He praised its "lazer-sharp acidity" and structured tannins, describing it as "full-bodied but very elegant and stylish." Suckling suggests that while it is beautiful now, it will be even better in 2024.

Decanter was particularly impressed, giving it a near-perfect score of 97. They noted a "classic nose with savoury character over a sweet spices background with elegant cigar box notes," and described it as "mouth watering with a full body and chewy mid-palate."

John Gilman, writing for View From The Cellar, scored it a 93, calling it "the finest example of Viña Arana" he has ever tasted. He emphasized its classical profile, velvety texture, and the potential for further complexity with age. Gilman also noted the wine's "ripe, seamless tannins" and "great focus and grip on the long, nascently complex and beautifully balanced finish."

Wine Enthusiast's Michael Schachner gave it a 94, appreciating its "dry oak aromas" and "earthy and cheesy" character, along with "ripe scents of raisiny berry fruits and vanilla." He described the palate as "rich while holding on to its balance," with bold flavors of "balsamic plum, berry fruits and tobacco."

Overall, the 2012 La Rioja Alta Viña Arana Gran Reserva is celebrated for its elegance, depth, and potential for aging, making it a standout Tempranillo from Rioja.