Great news for one of the most special wines we make in the bodega and barrel cellars of Elciego.
Viña Muriel Gran Reserva is the sum of three unique forces. Firstly, the grapes from the old vines on the oldest plots in two very special areas of Rioja Alavesa, each with its own identity: El Gallo (Elciego) and Veriquete (Lanciego). Secondly, a rigorous production process that begins with the harvest in boxes and a preliminary selection of the grapes in the vineyard. Thirdly, a long ageing period: 12 months in new French oak barrels, 12 months in third year barrels and 36 months in the bottle gaining extraordinary finesse and elegance.
All these qualities have recently been recognised. Firstly, at the Grandes Vinos de Navidad tasting organised at the beginning of December by daily newspaper Diario Vasco from San Sebastián. The group of tasters led by Íñigo Galatas made some very positive comments about Viña Muriel Gran Reserva:
The fruit at the end takes you back to the source
It's a pleasure to find this style of wine in the tasting sessions. The 2011 Gran Reserva is a classic from Bodegas Muriel. It stands out for its great complexity on the nose, with notes of fine wood, leather and spices. It is smooth on the palate with excellent balance and structure, and, as with all great wines, the fruit emerges again at the end, taking you back to the origin of the wine.
(Íñigo Galatas, gourmet)
A winery that can almost be described as centenarian (it was founded in 1926), Bodegas Muriel keeps the tradition intact in this style of wines that are so popular. They have successfully adopted a contemporary character while preserving their roots without losing sight of their origins. These wines always have a moment and a special place at the table to enjoy them.
(José Manuel Borrella, floor manager at restaurant Martín Berasategui)
James Suckling's TOP 100
James Suckling has included Viña Muriel Gran Reserva 2011, with 94 points, in his Top 100 Wines of Spain 2020. The wine ranks in the 78 position.
This is Suckling's comment:
"A fresh, linear Rioja with crushed blackberry and blueberry character. Some sandalwood and cedar undertones. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a fresh, clean finish. Refined and beautiful. Drinkable now, but will improve with age".
That's not al. Its brother wine, Viña Muriel Gran Reserva Garnacha 2011, ranks 75 on the list, walso with 94 points:
"Gorgeous garnacha with dried strawberry, spice, walnut and dried meat on the nose and palate. It?s full-bodied, tight and beautiful. Drink or hold".
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