Muriel Gran Reserva 2004

Brian Carroll reviewed this wine as follows:

A Gran Reserva Rioja at a Reserva price.

Riojas have three classifications: Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva. Each has strict regulations about the minimum time the wine has to remain in barrels and then in bottles. The three classifications correspond to longer aging times.

This Gran Reserva is a deep dark purple red in the glass, with a hint of brick at the meniscus. The nose comes across boldly with cherries and attractive hints of lemon, raisins, green peppers, and pepper. Refreshing on the palate, cherries predominate with lemon also coming forward. There are also hints of raisin, green pepper, oak, pepper and allspice. The flavours linger in aftertaste. A wine to be enjoyed slowly.

This classic Rioja can be enjoyed on its own, or with food. It goes well with turkey dinner. We're keeping it in the cellar for special dinners.

Riojas are released when ready to drink. Hugh Johnson says that 2004 Riojas can be drunk now, but special ones can last longer. We've put 6 bottles in the cellar for drinking in 2014-16. It may last longer, but somehow I don't think we'll find out.