Marqués de Murrieta

This fabulous winery is one of the oldest and rightfully prestigious bodegas in the La Rioja Wine Region. Marqués de Murrieta was established in 1852. The winery has changed pedigreed hands over the years and is now owned and run by an ambitious and dynamic young count, Count of Creixell, Vicente Cebrian-Sagarriga, whose name graces the Dalmau wines. Murrieta is known for being one of the most traditional wineries in the region, with the wines spending longer than average time in oak and noted for their acidity. Wines include El Dorado de Murrieta Reserva (white wine, very toasty), Marqués de Murrieta Reserva (classic and dreamy Rioja), Castillo de Ygay Gran Reserva Especial (80% Tempranillo, 13% Mazuelo, 4% Garnacha Tinta, 3% Graciano. 50 months in cask. This wine is only released in exceptional years), and Dalmau Reserva (made with 85% Tempranillo, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Graciano. 30 months in cask. This superb wine is considered to be one of the best in la Rioja. It is made in a modern style, contrasting with the more traditional Castillo Ygay, a luscious blockbuster of a wine). The Castle of Murrieta and the modern winery are located behind Logrono, nestled in its own vineyards. The setting is gorgeous, as is the amazing tasting room where you will feel like royalty!

Castillo de Ygay Gran Reserva Especial: 90 points from the Wine Spectator! They say: “Maturing now, this harmonious red offers flavors of dried cherries, wild herbs, and exotic spices; it’s firm yet supple, soft yet lively on the palate. A lovely example of the traditional style. 8,000 cases made.” Our notes – “Wow! Upon tasting the ’94, I am reminded why I have always considered Murrieta’s Gran Reserva to be one of Spain’s greatest wines. Suddenly, around the end of the second glass, a subtle and delicate intensity sneaks up to completely overwhelm the brain’s pleasure center. Powerfully subtle. (Ryan Owen, K&L Wines, California)”