Magnum, 1.5 litre bottle. A dark cherry colour with good depth. Balsamic aromas with hints of ripe fruit, complex and spicy. The attack is fresh and light, with soft, rounded tannins. The finish proves persistent with some reminders of toasted oak. On the palate it's pleasant and elegant, fresh and easy to drink. Marqués de Riscal Reserva is made from grapes grown on vines over 15 years old and spends approximately 2 years in oak barrels to produce that classic Rioja style. Raisiny fruit on the nose leads to ripe fruit and soft tannins on the palate.
Grape Variety: 34% Tempranillo, 33% Mazuelo, 33% Graciano
Background: Marqués de Riscal was founded in the 1850s in the small village of Elciego in the Alava region of Rioja. Breaking with tradition, a French winemaker was employed to oversee the introduction of French grape varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon is still planted), French vinification techniques and the construction of a new winery built along Bordeaux lines. Within five years the Bodega was winning prizes, culminating in the Diplome d'Honneur, the highest accolade at the XIII Exposition de Bordeaux, which it won in 1895. Throughout its history Marqués de Riscal has pioneered new techniques and standards that have led to ever greater character and consistency in their wines. Committed to the highest levels of quality, Marqués de Riscal can count amongst its technical advisers upon the eminent French oenologists Guy Guimberteau of the Bordeaux Wine Institute and Paul Pontallier of Château Margaux. |
