Marqués de Murrieta Capellanía Blanco Reserva 2019

Winery Background and History

Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta, established in 1852 by the Marqués de Murrieta, is a cornerstone of Rioja winemaking and one of the first estates in the region to export. Situated at the iconic Ygay Estate, it blends tradition with innovation under the stewardship of the Cebrián-Sagarriga family and technical director María Vargas. The Capellanía Reserva embodies this ethos—heritage white Rioja reimagined with elegant freshness. 

Producer and Winemaker

This wine is crafted by the estate’s seasoned team led by María Vargas. The winemaking ethos emphasizes precision and purity—hand-harvested grapes, gentle pressing, and a careful combination of concrete and oak aging. 

Vineyards and Microclimate

Grapes derive from the Capellanía single vineyard—6 hectares planted in 1945—at the highest altitude on the Ygay Estate (485 m). The calcareous-clay soils and old vines contribute to concentration, aromatic intensity, and balanced structure. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are destemmed, gently pressed after a short skin contact, with juice fermented in a large 9,400-liter concrete vat at low temperature. The wine then ages for 23 months in new French oak barrels followed by 13 months in concrete vats, without malolactic fermentation. 

Tasting Notes

A complex nose of stewed apple, pear, citrus blossom, hazelnut skin, white stone fruit, pine nut, bay leaf, and a smoky-mineral undertone. The palate is creamy and textured with vibrant acidity, chalky grip, and a long, focused finish that balances freshness with depth. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Exceptional with refined dishes: think caramelized eel with buttercream, white prawn tartare with imperial caviar, truffle risotto, grilled scallops with smoked potato, and foie gras. This is a gastronomic white meant to match rich, layered cuisine. 

Service Methods and Temperature

Serve chilled at 13 °C (55 °F) in a standard white wine glass. No decanting needed—just pour and enjoy its aromatic clarity. 

Storage and Aging Potential

Capellanía is built to age beautifully. Expect it to develop gracefully from now through 2035+, with tertiary notes such as hazelnut, spice, and toffee emerging over time. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100 % Viura (Macabeo) 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.0 % 

Scores (highest to lowest)

• James Suckling: 96 points 

• Luis Gutiérrez (Wine Advocate): 95 points 

• Tim Atkin, MW: 95 points 

• Vinous (Joaquín Hidalgo): 94 points 

• Wine Spectator: 93 points