Bodegas Muriel - Rioja Reserva 2016
Price: $18.25
Producer | Bodegas Muriel |
Country | Spain |
Region | Rioja |
Varietal | Tempranillo |
Vintage | 2016 |
Sku | 08952 |
An alluring yet complex reserva that provides immediate or short-term cellaring drinkability. This has a classically dry mouthfeel, but there is a wonderful richness of fruit here. Underlying vanilla, oak and coffee notes add to the appeal. This is a fabulous Rioja at an outstanding price.
Bodegas Muriel Description
From selected vineyards in several areas in Elciego (Rioja Alavesa). The climate is Continental Mediterranean, with a strong Atlantic influence. After a dry year and a hot summer, the prolonged 2016 harvest benefitted from a suitable weather to obtain a quality vintage – defined by the Rioja Regulatory Council as Very Good. Organically-poor clay/limestone soils, with vines that average 25 years old. Hand- harvested during the first half of 2016. 20 days of fermentation in stainless-steel tanks. Aged for 24 months in (50% French 50% American) barrels, with an additional 12 months in the bottle. 30% of all the barrels are new.
Tasting Notes: Bright red cherry color of medium intensity. Intense, deep and complex aromas of ripe red fruits, combined with aromas from the barrel aging (spices, coffee & vanilla). On the palate, it is balanced and elegant, with a high level of freshness and a long, deep and pleasant finish.
Serving Hints: Suggested serving temperature between 62°F - 65°F. Ideal for all types of grilled and roasted meats (especially pork and beef). It also matches well with strong fish and all kinds of cured cheeses. It is tasty with chocolate desserts.
Interesting Fact: When choosing to buy a Rioja wine, the four classifications of each Rioja will be clearly labeled on the bottle. For Reserva, This is only made during the years that were considered to be exceptional grapes harvested. A Reserva must be aged a minimum of 3 years, with at least one year being in oak and the rest in the bottle.
Wine Enthusiast: 93 Points
Dark ruby to the eye, this wine has a nose of raspberry, clove and espresso bean. Rigid tannins coat the palate, backing flavors of blackberry, black cherry, anisette, menthol and violet. Notes of ripe cherry and white flowers are at play on the lingering finish.
James Suckling: 92 Points
A perfumed nose of dark cherry, plum, coconut, cedar and dried thyme. Full-bodied with chewy tannins. Rich and structured with a chalky texture and a firm, delicious finish.