To hold a wine’s release until it has reached the optimal flavor takes the wherewithal to recognize the exceptional quality and extraordinary circumstances that occurred to create such a beverage. By Spanish law, Gran Reserva Rioja wines must be aged a minimum of five years, two in the barrel and three in the bottle. It is the decision of the winemaker, however, to decide when to release the wine after the minimum threshold is met.

Upon release, Tempranillo-based Gran Reserva Rioja is oaky, dense, and bold, a robust representation of the medium to full-bodied variety.

Marques de Murrieta was the first winery to put Riojan wine on the map. The historic property began in 1852 by Don Luciano Murrieta, applying the techniques learned in Bordeaux, crafting expressive, age-worthy wines in Rioja. Then like now, the winery has embraced modern winemaking with classic varieties and Old World Charm.

Marques de Murrieta Gran Reserva 2015 highlights these techniques, showcasing the quality and character of the Spanish region. Only produced in exceptional years when the first shows optimal character, the winery blends predominantly Tempranillo with  Graciano, Mazuelo, and Garnacha to deliver a black and blue fruit-filled wine with layers of toasted spice, oak, and vanilla. There are slight tertiary dried fruit notes coming through from the extensive aging, melding with woody herbs, licorice, and dried tobacco. Beautiful to enjoy now, but the wine could easily age another several years.

#Cheers