Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva 2011

Marqués de Murrieta has always been a pioneer in Rioja. Proudly old-fashioned in its approach, all the grapes are sourced from the bodega's own vineyards, at Ygay near Logroño, which now spreads across 300ha. No less than 14,000 casks are used in the cellar where the wines are aged for a minimum of two years (much longer than at any other Bodegas). They make Marqués de Murrieta, the glorious and very rare Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial and since 1995, a premium super-cuvée, Dalmau.

Castillo Ygay is the flagship of the estate. First labelled as Château Ygay, it is now known as Castillo Ygay, following a complaint from the French wine industry. The grapes are sourced from La Plana, a 40-hectare (98-acre) vineyard planted in 1950 at 485 meters altitude. They are vinified separately and aged for 28 months in a mix of French and American 225-litre oak barrels and an additional 13 months in a concrete tank. Complex aromas of ripe cherry, blueberry and cassis with hints of Mediterranean herbs, black pepper, clove and mocha. Liverly and harmonious on the palate with silky tannins and a long, elegant finish.