Viña Muriel Reserva 2016

Viña Muriel Reserva comes from Bodega Muriel, made with Tempranillo from Elciego in Rioja Alavesa. Most of the fruit grows on traditional low bush vines set in chalky, clay-rich soils that are very poor in organic matter, conditions that limit vigour and concentrate the grapes. The cool Atlantic edge to this part of Rioja gives slow ripening and the fresh acidity that lets a Reserva age. Fermentation and maceration run for fifteen days in stainless steel, with daily pump-overs to draw out colour and tannin. The wine then ages twenty-four months in American and French oak with three rackings, the long barrel time and the periodic racking working together to soften the tannins, clarify the wine and build the mature, savoury character of classic Rioja through steady oxygen exchange. The 2016 is a clear, luminous garnet. The nose is layered, with mature cherry and plum, dried fig, tobacco, leather and sweet oak spice. The palate is medium-bodied and elegant, with fine, resolved tannin, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18C. It pairs with roast lamb, grilled beef and aged hard cheese.