MIGUEL MERINO GRAN RESERVA

 GRAPE: Tempranillo 96% Graciano 6%

APPELLATION: Rioja DOCa

VINIFICATION: 

Once there, all the bunches were checked again in the sorting table.
Fermentation took place in small vats of stainless-steel, at controlled temperature, with frequent remontages (pumping over the must). Malolactic fermentation took place in new oak barrels. 3 years in 15 new French oak barrels. Topping every 6 weeks to minimize oxidation. 3 years in bottle before release.

TASTING NOTES: Shiny tile color with ocher tones on the edge. Fruit on the palate covered by a soft presence of vanilla and pepper. Elegant step on the palate with very soft, long and soft tannins.

FOOD PAIRING: Perfect pairing with Iberico bellota ham roasted lamb beef wellington fillet mignon suckling pig and all important dishes.

RATINGS HISTORY:

  • 94 Robert Parker (WA) , vntg 2020, 2019, 2016
  • 94 Tim Atkin , vntg 2020, 2018
  • 94 Vinous , vntg 2019
  • 93 Tim Atkin , vntg 2019
  • 92 Tim Atkin , vntg 2016
  • 93 Robert Parker (WA) , vntg 2014

Tech Sheet:

PRODUCER: Briones, in the heart of the Rioja Alta, gathered all the conditions I was looking for: old steep vineyards of Tempranillo grapes, chalky soil and a climate showing a marked Atlantic influence. Declared a town of historic artistic merit, Briones is where we decided to site our bodega.

Now as one of the smallest wineries in Spain, our wines are among the most prestigious in the country.