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 Jerez capataces (cellarmasters), the enologist 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 others. This XR was never marketed as such but was always a reference point for the master winemaker. This custom lasted almost a century, between the harvests of 1869 and 1964. XR 2015, its first vintage, pays tribute to all the master winemakers who, from Jean Pineau to today, 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
Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
Verdejo Organic Rueda
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Marqués de Riscal was the pioneer in developing the Rueda region, as they saw an area with the soils, climate, and grape (Verdejo) to produce fresh, balanced white wines. This 100% organic wine comes from Riscal's estate vineyards, is crafted with minimal intervention, and is an attractive and delightful wine that exhibits the classic aromatic intensity and bright acidity of the variety.
Rioja Gran Reserva
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A timeless wine made in the traditional style of wines from the Rioja Alavesa region, and a reflection of the founder’s aspirations in the 19th century: a wine of great intensity and concentration yet utterly refined. Able to keep for 50 years or more; a wine for eternity.
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Frank Gehry designed the Hotel Marqués de Riscal in his signature style, putting an indelible mark on the winery. This wine, a selection of estate vineyards at least 80 years old, is for slow drinking, to enjoy with friends over the course of a few days. It harkens back to the Riscal style of the beginning of the 20th century, and its tannic backbone and marked acidity mean it will age into the 21st century beautifully.
150 Aniversario Rioja
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Originally made for the bodega’s 150th anniversary, this wine is only made in exceptional vintages. The 1883 cellar where this wine is made has been refurbished in the intervening century and a half, marrying tradition and modernity in its large wooden vats and state-of-the-art sorting table. Vigorous, vibrant and more powerful than the rest of the classic Riojas, it is plush and round yet easy to drink.
Rioja Rosado
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Marqués de Riscal has produced outstanding rosé for over 60 years. Made from Tempranillo and Viura, this is the product of the young vines of the estate and has an uncommon combination of delicacy, freshness and refinement. Refreshing and with immediate appeal due to its natural fruitiness, the wine has lovely fresh flavors that unwind through its long, silky palate.
Baron di Chirel Rioja
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Born in 1986 from the Marqués de Riscal’s close relationship to some of the top winemakers in Bordeaux, the Barón de Chirel in many ways kicked off a new era of Rioja. Chosen from very old (80-110 years), low-yielding parcels of high-altitude Tempranillo and Cabernet vines around Elciego, these grapes undergo a meticulous process of selection before a special vinification process. The care that goes into this wine has cemented its prestige among discerning customers.
Arienzo Rioja Crianza
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Arienzo is a Crianza made from Tempranillo grown only in Rioja Alavesa, benefiting from the cooling effect of the Sierra Cantabria mountain range, and making it Marqués de Riscal’s first Vino de Zona. It is also the remarkable result of Riscal’s own vineyards and long term contract vineyards they manage, from a combination of pre-1970 plantings and their revolutionary program of grafting high quality old vine material to younger vines. It is the purest essence of Rioja with the highest standards of quality.
Rioja Reserva
Rioja
The iconic, classical Rioja known the world over. Crafted from old-vine Tempranillo with 10% or less of Graciano. Two years in American oak produces a fresh, fine, elegant and immensely food-friendly wine.
