Established in 1852, Murrieta are one of the oldest and most respected bodegas of Rioja. Their wines are made in a "classic" Rioja style and receive long ageing in barrel before release. Their wines are concentrated and long-lived, both red and white, and some - like the Gran Reserva "Castillo Ygay" - have become legendary amongst Rioja-lovers. Marques de Murrieta have not stood back and stagnated however: Their 300 hectare estate now has Cabernet Sauvignon planted for their Dalmau blend which represents Murrieta's avante-garde expression of Riojan terroir.

Grape varieties: 90% Tempranillo, 3% Garnacha, 4% Mazuelo, 3% Graciano.

Viticulture
Vineyard: The 300 Hectare YGAY estate. (400m above sea-level).

Wine Making
Key aspects of vinification: The grapes are first desteemed and then fermented in temperature controlled, 30.000 L, stainless steel tanks for 11-15 days, with constant skin contact, at 25C. During fermentation the wine is both pumped over the cap of grape skins at the top of the tank (remontage), and also

Parker Wine Advocate (usa): 91 points. Amongst the best good values of Rioja. It has intense balsamic notes of incense, smoked meat, leather, fennel and cherries, which make it feel very Rioja. The palate is medium-bodied, balanced, with excellent acidity and freshness. A serious vintage of Murrieta Reserva that represents great balance between tradition and modernity. Drink 2014-2028. by L. Gutirrez.