Established in 1852, Murrieta is one of the oldest and most respected bodegas in Rioja Alta. Their wines are concentrated and long-lived and some, like “Castillo Ygay”, have become legendary amongst wine-lovers. Marqués de Murrieta has not stood back and stagnated however; their 300 hectare estate produces Dalmau – a blend which represents an avant-garde expression of their terroir.
Within the 300 hectare Ygay estate, surrounding the winery in the southern point of Rioja Alta wine area. There is an altitude difference of 165 metres between the lowest point at 320 metres and the highest peak at 485 metres.
Grapes are first de-stemmed and then fermented in temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks for 8 days, with constant skin contact. During fermentation wine is both pumped over the cap of grape skins at the top of the tank (remontage), and also the cap is pressed into the fermenting wine (pigeage). Both these processes ensure a perfect colour and aroma extraction, without producing excessive tannin. Afterwards the solid parts of the grapes are pressed in vertical presses with double screws. This is a smooth and slow treatment that favours the extraction of the colour and tannins that reside in the skin of the grapes.
Harvested between 2nd and 23th of October.
Spicy aromas lead to flavors of vanilla, cherry, fresh herbs and minerality in this expressive red. With silky layers of oak, this medium bodied Rioja is well structured and balanced. Drinking beautifully now and will continue to develop through to 2021.
The Spanish love their lamb, beef and - obviously - jamón! This is the perfect partner.
Serve at 16º-18º C. Open one hour before serving.
Decanter: 94 Points
Tim Atkin MW: 94 Points
Peñin: 93 Points
Rioja Alta, Spain
93% Tempranillo
4% Mazuelo
2% Graciano
1% Garnacha
Natural cork
14%
