Marques de Murrieta 2014 Rioja Reserva, Finca Ygay

Marques de Murrieta is named after Luciano de Murrieta, one of the founding fathers of modern Rioja winemaking, who established the estate in 1852. Today V. Dalmau Cebrian-Sagarriga, Count of Creixell, leads the family-owned company. With a vision of innovation and respect for tradition, Marques de Murrieta is rooted in strong, historical fundamentals that shape the vision and philosophy of this iconic Spanish brand. The winery is near the southern tip of the Rioja Alta in the middle of the beautiful Ygay Estate, a unique 740-acre vineyard that guarantees complete control over the grape source and is the key to the quality and style of Marques de Murrieta wines. For this Reserva Grapes are sourced entirely from the Ygay Estate: 740 acres of vineyards surrounding the winery in the southernmost point of Rioja Alta. Altitude ranges from 320 to 485 meters above sea level The wine is aged for 19 months in American oak barrels. We were lucky enough recently to source Murrieta's 1982 Crianza "Etiqueta Blanca" which showed beautifully after all these years so it's clear these wines age tremendously. Wine Spectator scored this 92 points saying "This red has a lovely texture, polished and deep. The flavors are a bit muted, but reveal notes of cherry preserves, candied orange, dried herbs and vanilla, with light, firm tannins and orange peel acidity. Harmonious, in the traditional style. Drink now through 2026." and the Wine Advocate scored it 93 points saying "The blend of the 2014 Rioja Reserva is very similar to the 2013, 84% Tempranillo with 9% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo and 2% Garnacha. 2014 was a somewhat-challenging vintage, with warm and cold spells and some rain during the summer. The fermentation usually lasts eight days with pigéage and remontage, pressed and put to age in 225-liter American oak barrels for 19 months. This is still a little young and has had less time in bottle. It might need a little bit more time in bottle. The nose is subtle and very harmonious, with aromas of red cherries and some aromatic herbs. The palate is soft, it has a velvety texture with polished, round tannins, and there is a subtlety and harmony that is laudable. 900,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in seven lots between July and September 2017."