The calling card of Marqués de Riscal and arguably the single, iconic representation of the Rioja region the world over. This Reserva wine is made exclusively – and remarkably – from Tempranillo vines planted at elevation before the 1970s, and grown in the best clay-limestone soils of the Rioja Alavesa. Riscal has, simply, the greatest collection of old vines in the world. This incredible material is then gently handled, and the trademark refined and seductive wine effortlessly gives pleasure on release and for years.
Marques de Riscal’s important vineyards holdings and long term contracts are focused around a specific quality approach. For their Reservas they work exclusively with old vines, from before the 1970s, as they firmly believe that these are critical for the delicate Tempranillo grape to achieve appropriate concentration. They work in the coolest area of Rioja (Rioja Alavesa), at elevation, on soils that accentuate freshness and detail, and with around 10% Graciano; these factors bring forward the winery’s trademark vibrancy, refinement, and aging potential.
Marques de Riscal Rioja Reserva 2021
4 in stock
Tasting Notes: Spiced Plum, Licorice, Supple, Warm, Cocoa, Soft Tannins
Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature and the maceration time is never more than 12 days. Riscal reservas spend around two years in American Oak Barrels with a small percentage in French oak, producing a wine which corresponds to the classic Rioja style: fresh, fine, elegant and very suitable for laying down for many years. Before release for sale it spends a minimum of one year rounding off in the bottle; time enough to show how much complexity Tempranillo is able to achieve.
The 2021 vintage in Rioja Alavesa benefited from a cooler-than-average growing season, with steady rainfall replenishing soils after dry years. A mild summer slowed ripening, allowing grapes to retain natural acidity while developing balanced sugars. September brought stable, sunny days and cool nights, enabling a leisurely harvest under optimal conditions. The result is a vintage marked by freshness, precision, and age-worthy structure, reflecting the region’s limestone-rich terroir.
Expressive aromas of licorice, cinnamon and black pepper, with a subtle touch of cask aging adding complexity to ripe, concentrated fruit. Fresh and supple, with polished tannins, balanced structure, and lingering balsamic notes on the finish.
Body Weight
Clubs
Join the Community – Exclusive Wines, Shared Moments.
