Marqués de Murrieta Rioja Gran Reserva 2014/15

Marqués de Murrieta is the oldest estate in the Rioja Alta region. Significant modern renovation in recent years means they are able to make elevated, modern wines whilst respecting the historic tradition of this fine estate. It was established in 1852 by Luciano Francisco Ramón de Murrieta, one of the founding fathers of modern Rioja winemaking. Luciano, drawing on his experiences in France, felt that to make the best wines in the world the grapes needed to come from a single estate. This guaranteed complete control over the grapes, and after this he established the Ygay Estate near Logroño in Rioja Alta. Luciano was a leader in using French techniques to develop greater complexity and longevity from Tempranillo, Rioja’s local red grape. Winemaker Maria Vargas, having been at the winery since she graduated and she works with Vicente to develop and evolve the signature Murrieta style, creating subtle yet age-worthy red wines. This Rioja is full-bodied and generous, with flavours of red currants, cherries, aromatic herbs, spicy oak and soft vanilla. It pairs beautifully with grilled red meats, bellota ham, and dishes with rich sauces.