Marqués de Riscal Reserva wines are made from grapes from Tempranillo vines planted before 1970's, grown in the best clay-limestone soils of the Rioja Alavesa. This variety withstands oak- and bottle ageing well thanks to its good balance of acidity and fine tannin. The Graciano variety, whose presence in the blend does not exceed 10%, provide crispness and a lively colour.
Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature of 26ºC and the maceration time is never more than 12 days. Riscal reservas spend around two years in American Oak barrels, producing a wine which corresponds to the classic Rioja style: fresh, fine, elegant and very suitable for laying down for many years. Before release for sale it spends a minimum of one year rounding off in the bottle; time enough to show how much complexity tempranillo is able to achieve.
Nose: Cherry-red colour with spicy, balsamic aromas of great complexity, with notes of ripe dark berries and light toasted nuances.
Palate: On the palate it is full and tasty, with good structure and rounded, elegant tannins.
Finish: The finish is long and fresh, with a slight reminder of the fine oak.
