Marqués de Murrieta ‘Dalmau’ Reserva 2019

Winery Background and History

Established in 1852 by Luciano de Murrieta, Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta is celebrated as one of Rioja’s aristocratic estates. Located on the historic Ygay Estate, now under the stewardship of the Cebrián-Sagarriga family and winemaker María Vargas, the winery blends heritage and innovation. The “Dalmau” Reserva, one of their most expressive wines, showcases modern Rioja with elegance and character, setting itself apart within the estate’s portfolio.

Producer and Winemaker

Dalmau is crafted under the precise guidance of the estate’s seasoned team, with María Vargas overseeing production. The wine originates from the single-vineyard “Canajas,” featuring low yields and carefully selected fruit—an approach reflecting both tradition and innovation in Rioja.

Vineyards and Micro-Climate

Sourced exclusively from the Canajas vineyard—planted in the early 1950s and located at 465 m elevation on iron-rich clay soils—the wine benefits from low yields (1 kg per vine) and excellent ripening conditions. This terroir imparts intensity, structure, and clarity to the wine.

Vinification & Aging Methods

After careful destemming, each variety—Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Graciano—undergoes separate fermentation (10 days), with Tempranillo in stainless steel and the others in oak vats, using techniques like pumping over and delestage. The blend ages for 20 months in new Allier French oak barrels followed by 6 months in concrete vats before bottling.

Tasting Notes

A bold, fruit-forward palate opens with plush dark berry flavors, supported by lively acidity and silky tannins that lend structure, breadth, and depth.

Food & Wine Pairing

Pair with rich, savory dishes like oxtail with red wine reduction, veal shank with piquillo peppers, or dark chocolate truffles—options that complement the wine’s power and refinement.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve around 16 °C (60 °F), ideally decanted for 20 minutes to allow aroma development and tannin integration.

Storage and Aging Potential

This wine is built for aging and can develop further layers of complexity over time. Given its structure, stylistic clarity, and pedigree, it should evolve gracefully over 10–20+ years.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

Approximately 82% Tempranillo, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Graciano

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5%

Scores (sorted highest to lowest)

• Wine Enthusiast: 98 points

• James Suckling: 97 points

• Robert Parker (Wine Advocate): 96 points