Wine Overview

The Marqués de Riscal 2016 Gran Reserva Rioja DOCa is a timeless expression of Spanish winemaking heritage from one of Rioja’s most historic estates. Produced from old-vine Tempranillo (72%) with 28% other native Rioja varietals, this exceptional wine embodies elegance, complexity, and age-worthiness. Crafted only in outstanding vintages, the Gran Reserva represents nearly two centuries of Marqués de Riscal’s pioneering vision.

This 1.5-liter Magnum format not only ensures slower, graceful aging but also makes it an impressive centerpiece for collectors, fine dining, and celebratory occasions.

Winemaking & Aging

• Vine Source: Grapes from 80+ year old estate vines in Rioja Alavesa.
• Aging: 2.5–3 years in American oak barrels, followed by a minimum of 3 years in bottle before release.
• Vinification: Careful hand-selection, traditional coupage, and extended maturation to balance fruit concentration with oak complexity.
• Cellaring Potential: Built to last, this Gran Reserva can age gracefully for 50 years or more, developing remarkable tertiary aromas over time.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Deep black-cherry red, almost opaque, with vibrant violet reflections.

• Nose: Expressive and layered, offering balsamic notes, black mushrooms, cedar, lavender, and sweet spices. Complex aromas of ripe black cherries, plums, dark chocolate, and Earl Grey tea evolve with aeration, enhanced by subtle hints of cigar box and fine oak toast.
• Palate: Smooth yet powerful, with polished tannins and remarkable depth. Rich black fruit—blackcurrant, blackberry, and mulberry—melds seamlessly with flavors of mocha, coffee, clove, and mint. Secondary notes of dried flowers, crushed walnuts, and bitter chocolate add intrigue.
• Finish: Long, lingering, and harmonious, with silky tannins and vibrant acidity that ensure both immediate pleasure and incredible longevity.

Critical Acclaim

• 96 Points – James Suckling: “Sweet cherries, plums, cedar, and lavender. Full-bodied, polished tannins, and beautiful finish. Lively and intense.”
• 95 Points – Wine Enthusiast: “Dark chocolate, black currant, clove, and orange blossom with vigorous tannins and a long finish.”
• 95 Points – Other Reviews: Consistently praised for its balance of power, elegance, and potential to evolve for decades.

Food Pairing

The Marqués de Riscal Gran Reserva 2016 is a versatile gastronomic wine:

• Charcuterie & Cheeses: Jamón Ibérico, aged Manchego, Comté.
• Meats: Roast lamb, ribeye steak, braised short ribs, venison, and game casseroles.
• Classic Rioja Pairings: Chorizo, roasted peppers, and mushroom-based dishes.
• Elegant Touches: Pairs beautifully with truffle risotto or beef Wellington.

Estate Heritage

Founded in 1858, Marqués de Riscal is a pioneer of Rioja winemaking, known for introducing Bordeaux-style techniques and establishing Rioja as a world-class wine region. Today, it exports to over 110 countries, blending tradition and innovation with every bottle. The estate’s Gran Reserva represents the pinnacle of this legacy, embodying the soul of Rioja Alavesa.