Muga 'Reserva', Rioja Reserva, Spain 2020

Muga 'Reserva', Rioja Reserva, Spain 2020

Bodegas Muga, situated in the historic Barrio de la Estación in Haro, is a family-owned winery renowned for its commitment to traditional winemaking methods and exceptional quality. Established in 1932, the winery combines time-honored techniques with meticulous craftsmanship, including in-house barrel production, to create wines that embody the rich heritage of Rioja.

• WINEMAKER: Isaac Muga and the Muga family
• FARMING: Practices traditional and sustainable viticulture, adhering to organic methods, though uncertified.
• VARIETY: 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 7% Mazuelo, 3% Graciano
• TERROIR: Vineyards located in the coolest, highest altitude areas of Rioja Alta, characterized by calcareous clay soils from the tertiary era, contributing to the wine's complexity and elegance.
• VINIFICATION: Manual harvesting; fermentation in wooden vats with controlled temperatures; maceration for seven days to extract optimal color and tannins.
• AGING: Aged for 24 months in barrels crafted in Muga's own cooperage, with 80% French oak and 20% American oak; fined with fresh egg whites; followed by a minimum of 12 months in bottle for further refinement.
• TASTING NOTES: This 2020 vintage presents a bright ruby-red color with medium depth and a garnet-tinged rim. The nose reveals an intense, complex bouquet of wild forest fruits like blackberries and blueberries, intertwined with subtle spice notes. On the palate, it is long, elegant, and well-balanced, with integrated acidity and soft tannins, leading to a prolonged, fruit-forward finish.
• FOOD PAIRINGS: An excellent companion to meat dishes such as ribeye steak, charcuterie, and various casseroles. Its balance and structure also make it suitable for enjoying with aged cheeses.
• SCORES: 92 points – James Suckling: "Ripe but fresh nose of currants, blackberries, chocolate, and plums. Not a big red, rather fluid and medium-bodied with soft tannins. A juicy, drinkable Muga Reserva that is already appealing."