Wines Rioja Marqués de Riscal - Reserva - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Marqués de Riscal Reserva 2021 is a classic red Rioja, renowned for its distinctive character and heritage. This wine is crafted predominantly from Tempranillo grapes, typically complemented by smaller proportions of Graciano and Mazuelo to add complexity and structure. The 2021 vintage benefited from an excellent growing season, marked by a balanced climate that yielded grapes with both freshness and concentration. Traditional vinification methods are used at Marqués de Riscal, with fermentation in stainless steel followed by an extended maturation period of at least 24 months in American oak barrels. This results in a wine with vibrant ruby colour, an aromatic bouquet of red berries, vanilla, sweet spices, and a subtle hint of balsamic. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, with refined tannins and a long, elegant finish underscored by notes of ripe cherries, toasted oak, and a touch of liquorice.

The Rioja region, nestled in northern Spain and bisected by the Ebro River, is one of the country’s most storied and prestigious wine areas. The diverse terroir ranges from rolling limestone and clay hills to gravelly, alluvial soils, providing ideal conditions for Tempranillo’s nuanced expression. Rioja’s climate is a harmonious blend of Atlantic, Mediterranean, and continental influences, creating ample diurnal temperature variation that promotes balanced ripening and aromatic complexity. The history of Rioja is rich, with a winemaking tradition that dates back to Roman times but was revolutionised in the nineteenth century by Bordeaux-inspired techniques, especially the use of oak ageing, which Rioja wines are now famous for.

For food pairings, the Marqués de Riscal Reserva 2021 excels alongside traditional Spanish fare such as roast lamb, Ibérico ham, or Riojan-style potatoes with chorizo. Its structure and spicy notes make it ideal for a variety of meats, from grilled beef to pork loin, and even hard cheeses like Manchego. If you prefer international cuisine, try it with mushroom risotto, game birds, or lightly spiced Mediterranean dishes.

Serve this wine slightly below room temperature to best reveal its aromatic and flavour complexity. A serving temperature of 16–18°C is ideal. Decanting for around 30 minutes before tasting will allow the wine’s bouquet to blossom and ensure a harmonious experience.