2001 Marques de Riscal GRAN RESERVA Rioja (150th Anniversary)
Name:
Marques de Riscal GRAN RESERVA Rioja (150th Anniversary) - 2001
Where it's from:
>Spain
>Rioja
>Rioja Alta
Price per case:
£255.98
Bottle size:
75 cl
Bottles per case:
6
Style:
Powerful Reds
Grapes:
Tempranillo
Description:
It was Don Camilo Hurtado de Amezaga, Marques de Riscal de Alegre, who in 1860, through his revolutionary ideas, put his mark on the historical Spanish wine map. His innovative methods imported from Bordeaux, much criticised at that time, brought a new way of understanding and elaborating our best wines.
Following in the innovative wake of the Bordeaux wines, MarquÉs de Riscal built the first Spanish cellar of the Modern Age. Located in the heart of Rioja, its construction was overseen by the prestigious engineer, Ricardo Bellsola. More than 200 stonemasons were employed on the construction. Its two-metre thick walls allowed for the maintenance of a constant temperature of 14º.
Wines, for the first time in Spain, were elaborated with Merlot, Malbec, Pinot Noir and other varieties. These new incorporations did not substitute the indigenous varieties such as Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Graciano, rather the masterful combination of both origins gave rise to the unique accent of the Riscal wines.
For the selection of its grapes Riscal has over 200 regular suppliers, going back four generations from father to son. By general consensus, an agricultural plan has been established, thanks to which growers are advised on each and every aspect (pruning, fertilisers, treatment, etc.) so that the final product complies fully with the desired parameters for maximum quality.
A predominantly dry year with the driest and hottest summer for over 40 years. There was little in the way of spring frost while the very mild temperatures in March resulted in an early bud break, almost a month earlier than usual. The harvest was early and produced grapes of exceptional quality. One of the best vintages for decades and officially classed by the Consejor Regulador as excellent.
Despite 29 months maturation in American casks the wine retains a youthful colour on the rim, with a deeply concentrated centre. The aroma is fresh and lively showing a combination of toasted oak and dried fruits. On the palate the wine is rich and powerful. Though approachable now, the good acidity and firm tannins suggest a wine capable of long ageing.
