Marques de Riscal - Reserva 2016

Robert Parker, 91 pts: Textbook Rioja aromas of spiced plum, vanilla, tobacco and oak grain open this well-balanced reserva. Cherry, red plum, currant and integrated oak-spice flavors remain composed on a finish that benefits from a latent shot of acidity. Drink through 2025.

Marqués de Riscal Reserva wines are made mainly from grapes from tempranillo vines planted before the 1970s, grown in the best clay-limestone soils of the Rioja Alavesa. This variety withstands oak- and bottle ageing well thanks to its good balance of acidity and fine tannin. The Graciano variety, whose presence in the blend does not exceed 10%, provides freshness and vibrancy of colour. 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, producing a wine which corresponds to the classic Rioja style: fresh, fine, elegant and very suitable for laying own 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.