Marqués de Riscal Red Reserva 2014, DOCa Rioja, Spain

90% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano & Mazuelo. Marqués de Riscal Reserva wines are predominantly made from grapes from Tempranillo vines over 15 years of age, 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 and Mazuelo varieties, whose presence in the blend does not exceed 10%, provide crispness and a lively color. Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature of 26ºC and the maceration time is never more than 12 days. Riscal Reservas spend around two years in American-oak casks, 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. Cherry-red colour with good robe. Spicy, balsamic aromas of great complexity, with notes of ripe dark berries and light toasted nuances. On the palate it is full and tasty, with good structure and rounded, elegant tannins. The finish is long and fresh, with a slight reminder of the fine oak.