Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial 2011 Magnum 1500ml

97 points, “Deep violet-red to the eye, this wine has a nose of raspberry, white chocolate and juniper berry. Still youthful on the palate, it offers ever-present tannins supporting flavours of dark plum, black cherry, caramel and violet that slowly fade into a soft cherry-pie finish.” – Wine Enthusiast

95 points, “Deep garnet. A highly perfumed, complex bouquet evokes red and blue fruits, incense, pipe tobacco, vanilla and mocha, along with smoky mineral and spice nuances that build in the glass. Sappy, palate-staining black raspberry, cherry compote, succulent herb, candied rose and vanilla flavours show excellent depth and clarity, while a spine of juicy acidity contributes cut and structure. Shows excellent energy and detail, finishing with strong persistence, repeating florality and velvety tannins that come in late.” – Antonio Galloni’s Vinous

Tim Atkin MW awarded this “very impressive wine” 96 points, which was the same score he gave the sensational 2010 version. This, combined with the critic reviews above, show just how good Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial 2011 is. Compared with other world-famous wines of this quality, Ygay offers startlingly good value, although massive demand in America is beginning to cause the price to rise dramatically. The wine is made from Tempranillo and Mazuelo (Carignan) sourced from the La Plana vineyard, high up in the Ygay Estate. Aged for 28 months in oak barrels, it has an unbelievable balance, especially considering the hotter vintage. A must-try for Rioja lovers; think earthy flavours like game, aged beef, slow-cooked mushrooms, roasted cauliflower and root vegetable puree.

Established in 1852, Marqués de Murrieta is one of the oldest and most highly regarded wineries in Rioja Alta. Luciano Murrieta produced the first ever Rioja, exported before anyone else in the region, and built a grand “château” on the Ygay Estate inspired by Bordeaux. Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial is the pinnacle of their production and has phenomenal ageing potential.