MARQUES DE MURRIETA RIOJA RESERVA YGAY 2011 750ML

Cherry, blackberry and baking-spice aromas are classic for this winery and the Rioja region. Bright, elegant and just plush enough on the palate, this tastes of plum, spiced berry fruits and mocha. A composed, dry, loamy feeling finish isn't pushy or demanding. Drink this easygoer through 2021.

I had two vintages to taste of the same wine, which always makes for an interesting comparison. The 2011 Rioja Reserva, their volume red, is a blend of 89% Tempranillo, 5% Mazuelo, 4% Graciano and 2% Garnacha Tinta from a diversity of plots in the Ygay Estate. The different varieties fermented separately in stainless steel vats. It matured in 225-liter American oak barrels for some 20 months, at least during eight months in new oak. The wine very clearly shows much riper fruit than the 2012; it is great to see the wine reflecting the much warmer conditions of the harvest. It has a classical profile with an important role of the American oak. The palate is polished and sleek, with very fine tannins and a long finish. 950,000 bottles produced in eight different lots. I tasted a bottle from the bottling in the second half of 2014. In the context of the new Rosé and the old white that has just been released, the price here looks unreal.