Marques de Riscal Gran Reserva Rioja DOCa 2018

Producer

Marqués de Riscal is one of Spain's oldest and most iconic wine estates, founded in 1858 by Camilo Hurtado de Amézaga, the Marqués de Riscal. A true pioneer of modern Rioja, he introduced Bordeaux inspired winemaking techniques that helped establish Rioja as Spain's most celebrated wine region and set a new standard for quality across the appellation. More than 165 years later, the estate remains one of Rioja's benchmark producers, combining a rich historical legacy with an unwavering commitment to crafting elegant, age worthy wines that continue to define the region.

Winery

Located in the medieval village of Elciego in Rioja Alavesa, Marqués de Riscal sources fruit from carefully selected vineyards throughout one of Rioja's finest growing areas. The Gran Reserva represents the estate's most prestigious tier and is produced only in exceptional vintages from the highest quality fruit. Tempranillo forms the foundation of the blend, complemented by small amounts of Graciano and Mazuelo. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for two years in American oak barrels before extended bottle aging, allowing it to develop the remarkable complexity, refinement, and harmony that have become hallmarks of the Gran Reserva style.

Region

Rioja is Spain's most prestigious wine region and one of the world's great sources of age worthy red wine. Rioja Alavesa, the smallest of Rioja's three subregions, is widely admired for producing some of the appellation's most elegant and aromatic Tempranillo. Higher elevations, limestone and clay soils, and the cooling influence of the Atlantic create ideal conditions for slow, even ripening while preserving freshness and structure. These characteristics allow Rioja Alavesa to produce wines of remarkable balance, complexity, and longevity that continue to improve for decades.

Wine Profile

The 2018 Marqués de Riscal Gran Reserva is a beautifully traditional expression of Rioja from an outstanding vintage. Aromas of black cherry, dried plum, cedar, tobacco, vanilla, baking spice, leather, and dried herbs emerge alongside notes of cocoa, graphite, and earthy minerality. The palate is medium to full bodied with beautifully integrated tannins, vibrant acidity, and layers of dark fruit balanced by savory oak nuances and remarkable freshness. Extended aging in American oak and bottle has created exceptional harmony while preserving the wine's elegance and structure. The finish is long, complex, and persistent, reflecting both the excellence of the 2018 vintage and the estate's century and a half of winemaking expertise.

Pairing Ideas

Marqués de Riscal Gran Reserva is a superb companion for classic Spanish cuisine and richly flavored dishes. Pair it with roasted lamb, grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, cochinillo asado, or slow roasted pork. It is equally outstanding alongside aged Manchego, jamón Ibérico, mushroom dishes, and hearty stews. Its refined structure, savory complexity, and graceful maturity make it a perfect choice for special occasions while offering the ability to continue evolving beautifully in the cellar for many years to come.