Marqués de Riscal Gran Reserva 2018

Winery Background and History

Established in 1858 in Rioja Alavesa, Marqués de Riscal is one of Spain’s oldest and most prestigious wineries, pioneering Rioja winemaking with French-inspired techniques. The Gran Reserva embodies their legacy—crafted only in exceptional years from old-vine Tempranillo and aged extensively to reflect tradition, precision, and longevity. Crafted from estate vineyards and long-standing grower sources, it’s a truly emblematic expression of Rioja Alavesa’s terroir and the winery’s commitment to excellence  .

Producer and Wine Maker

Made by Marqués de Riscal’s estate winemaking team, the Gran Reserva follows a traditional approach: after final blending, it spends 28 months in French oak casks, followed by three years in bottle before release. The wine is crafted to age gracefully and express harmony between fruit, oak, and terroir  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from very old Tempranillo vines (80+ years old), both estate-owned and from trusted local growers in Rioja Alavesa. This region features a continental climate with significant diurnal temperature shifts and clay-limestone soils, contributing aromatic depth, freshness, and structural elegance  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

After harvest and blending, the wine undergoes 28 months of aging in French oak barrels. It then rests in bottle for an additional three years before release—ensuring integration, complexity, and refined tannic presence  .

Tasting Notes

Deep black-cherry color with violet hues. Aromas reveal complex balsamic intensity, toasty oak, and balanced fruit. On the palate, it’s smooth and full-bodied, with harmonious concentrated tannins, round texture, and a long finish. Flavors include black cherry, balsamic undertones, gentle oak spice, and a persistent, elegant structure  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs exceptionally with traditional Spanish fare: cured ham, mature cheeses, red meats, roasted dishes, and hearty game casseroles—the wine’s richness and structure complement savory, sustained flavors  .

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve between 16–18 °C; decanting is recommended to allow aromas to open and tannins to soften—a classic temperature for refined Rioja Gran Reserva  .

Storage and Aging Potential

Designed for long-term cellaring; in excellent vintages like 2018, this wine can age gracefully for 50 years or more, while preserving balance and evolving complexity. The recommended drinking window extends well into the mid-21st century  .

Grape Varietals & percentage used

Approximately 80 % Tempranillo; remaining 20 % from traditional Rioja varieties such as Graciano and Mazuelo (Carignan)  .

ABV

14.5 % ABV  .

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast – 96 Points, Cellar Selection 

• James Suckling – 95 Points 

• The Rioja Report / Club Oenologique – 93 Points