Muriel Gran Reserva 2016

Muriel Reserva 2016 – Bodegas Muriel (D.O.Ca. Rioja)

92–93 Points - James Suckling / Tim Atkin / Guía Peñín

Muriel Reserva 2016 encapsulates the balance, precision, and longevity of the standout 2016 harvest in Rioja Alavesa. In the glass, it displays an attractive, luminous ruby-red color with bright garnet reflections.

On the nose, it offers an expressive and deeply layered bouquet. Ripe red and black orchard fruits—cherries, dark plums, and crushed raspberries—mingle effortlessly with sweet spices, vanilla, cedar, and dried herbs. With subtle aeration, elegant tertiary notes of fine tobacco leaf, noble leather, cocoa, and subtle toasted oak nuances unfold gracefully.

On the palate, it is medium-to-full-bodied, showing exceptional balance and polish. The tannins are sweet, fine-grained, and velvety, wrapping seamlessly around a vibrant core of fruit. Crisp, integrated acidity imparts agility, ensuring the wine feels fresh, fluid, and lifted. The finish is persistent, clean, and savory, echoing delicate toasted spices and ripe fruit.

Production and Serving Details

Grape Variety: 100% Tempranillo from old bush vines (30–40 years old) in Elciego (Rioja Alavesa), planted in poor clay-limestone soils

Aging: 24 months in French and American oak barrels (225-liter barriques), followed by an additional 12 to 24 months of bottle refinement prior to commercial release

Drinking Window: Now through 2030+

Serving Advice: Serve at 16–18°C; aerating for 30–45 minutes beforehand allows its classic complexity to sing. Pairs excellently with roast lamb, grilled beef, game birds, Iberian pork cuts, and aged Spanish cheeses.