Named European Winery of The Year in Wine Enthusiast's 2013 Wine Star Awards, Marques de Riscal is one of Rioja's legendary estates. In 1858 Herederos de Marqués de Riscal became the first winery in the Rioja to produce wines following the Bordeaux method of slow fermentation and careful blending. A classic Rioja wine, the Marqués de Riscal Gran Reserva is 90% Tempranillo, 8% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo.
To make this Gran Reserva, Riscal uses grapes from vines over 80 years of age, from their own estate vineyards and from local growers. Once the wine destined to become a Gran Reserva has been selected it is aged for 31 months in French-oak casks. This is followed by a further minimum of three years bottle ageing before release.
This Gran Reserva shows classic style of earthy, drid berry aromas along with zesty spice notes. Supple and velvety on the palate with more dried cherry and stewed plums with tobacco spice and hints of leather leading to a long satisfying finish.