About the product
Marqués de Murrieta Rioja Reserva from the legendary Finca Ygay estate represents over 150 years of winemaking excellence in Spain's most prestigious wine region. This classic Reserva showcases the depth and complexity that comes from careful aging in oak, delivering layers of ripe red fruit, subtle spice, and elegant tannins. The wine's balanced structure and refined character make it perfect for special occasions or pairing with fine cuisine. A timeless expression of traditional Rioja craftsmanship that rewards both immediate enjoyment and patient cellaring.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Taste Notes
The 2017 vintage was a "challenging" year in Rioja due to frost, but Murrieta’s strict selection resulted in a wine that critics have called "harmonious and powerful."
- Appearance: Intense cherry red with a bright garnet rim.
- Nose: High aromatic intensity. It opens with ripe blackberries and raspberries, followed by the classic "Rioja signature" of vanilla, tobacco box, and leather. There are subtle hints of aromatic herbs like thyme and a whisper of graphite.
- Palate: Full-bodied yet silky. It features a concentrated core of ripe plum and black cherry balanced by refreshing acidity. The tannins are well-integrated and "polished," giving the wine a velvety texture.
- Finish: Very long and persistent, tapering off with notes of toasted oak, licorice, and sweet balsamic.
Food Pairings
As a robust, oak-aged red, this wine demands savory, protein-rich dishes that can stand up to its structure:
- Traditional Match: Milk-fed Lamb Chops (Chuletillas). The gamey fat of the lamb is perfectly cut by the wine’s acidity, while the oak notes complement the char from the grill.
- Savory Indulgence: Jamón Ibérico or Manchego Cheese. The salty, nutty profile of cured Spanish meats and hard cheeses highlights the red fruit and leather notes in the wine.
- Main Course: Roast Duck or Braised Short Ribs. The wine has enough "grip" to handle rich sauces and heavy meats.
- Vegetarian: Mushroom and Truffle Risotto. The earthy "umami" of the mushrooms mirrors the forest floor and tobacco notes found in the aged Tempranillo.
About the brand
Marques De Murrieta is a prestigious Spanish wine brand with a history that dates back to 1852. Located in the Rioja region, Marques De Murrieta is renowned for producing high-quality red, white, and rosé wines. Their flagship wine, Marques De Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva, is a blend of Tempranillo and other traditional Spanish varietals, known for its complex and elegant flavors. The winery combines modern winemaking techniques with traditional practices, ensuring that each bottle reflects the richness of the region’s terroir. Marques De Murrieta is a symbol of elegance and sophistication, offering wines that are celebrated for their depth and character.
