Marqués de Riscal
XR Rioja Reserva 2020
Rioja Reserva DOCa
At Marqués de Riscal, there used to be “winemaker’s wines” among its historic reservas, like the Reserva Medoc and the XR, which never became commercial names. In the tradition of the cellarmasters from Bordeaux that have long been part of Riscal’s story, the winemaker marked some of the barrels in chalk with the letters XR (Extra Reserva) as a consequence of having found special characteristics which were not present in other wines. These wines were never sold but served as a reference point for the winemaker. This custom lasted almost a century, between the harvests of 1869 and 1964. In 2015, Marqués de Risca released a wine named XR, paying tribute to all the master winemakers who have helped to forge a part of the greatest history of Spanish wine in Marqués de Riscal.
Vintage
A hot and rainy autumn led to rapid development in the spring; harvest began on September 10, with above-average ripeness.
Tasting Note
Intense black-cherry color with good depth of color and hardly any signs of evolution. Very expressive aromas on the nose with notes of liquorice, cinnamon and black pepper, with just a subtle hint of the long cask-aging, thanks to its great complexity and ripe, concentrated fruit. Fresh and easy to drink on the palate, good backbone and lovely, polished tannins.
Food Pairing
This wine goes well with ham, mild cheeses, rich pastas, poultry, grilled red meats or roasts.
Color
Red
Blend %
95% Tempranillo, 5% Graciano
Appellation
Rioja Reserva DOCa
Alcohol
15.00%
Suggested Retail Price
$46.99
More on Marqués de Riscal XR Rioja Reserva 2020
Marqués de Riscal: Finding new life in old vines
November 15, 2024 - Decanter published a dedicated feature on Marqués de Riscal about the winery’s innovative approach to reviving old vines and adapting to climate change through organic and regenerative farming. The article…
Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
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