To qualify as a Gran Reserva, a wine must remain in oak for two or more years, and then in bottle for three or more. (In comparison, Reservas age one year or more in oak, followed by two or more in bottle.)

Marqués de Murrieta’s Gran Reserva is made in select vintages with hand-harvested fruit sourced from their Ygay Estate, 320 to 485 metres above sea level.  Fruit is de-stemmed, then fermented in cool stainless steel. Juice is pressed off in a vertical press, a gentle process that extracts colour and ripe tannins. The wine ages for just over two years in American oak, followed by three years in bottle prior to release.

“The 2016 Gran Reserva is a meticulously crafted blend of 82% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 8% Mazuelo sourced from the esteemed Ygay Estate in Rioja Alta. It aged for up to 26 months in American oak barrels. This wine epitomizes the essence of Rioja reds when vineyard management and winemaking precision align with a distinct stylistic vision. Presenting an opaque garnet hue, it entices with a bouquet of complex aromas : plum marmalade, herbal undertones, maraschino cherry, dried fruits, licorice and subtle hints of balsamic and menthol. On the palate, it offers a dry and robust profile with a velvety, juicy texture. The finish is long, balanced and harmonious. The 2016 vintage exemplifies a wine crafted for aging, just beginning to reveal the nuances and intricacies of a bouquet that will evolve with time.”
96 points, Joaquin Hidalgo, Vinous Media, November 2023

“Aromas of black berries, black olives, black truffles, autumn leaves and earth. Grilled orange peel. Very complex. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a complex and complete finish. Nicely persistent and focused. 26 months in American oak. Drink or hold.”
96 points, James Suckling, October 2023