B-21 Top Recommendation Read More
Described as a “crystal clear expression” of Rioja by Joaquin Hidalgo of Vinous, Bodegas Muga fans and Rioja collectors won’t need convincing to stock up on the irresistible 95 pt. 2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial, a silky and concentrated Rioja offering fresh, ripe dark fruit with earthy minerality and integrated, polished tannins built to enjoy over the next decade and beyond at a terrific price.
Located among the region’s most historic wineries, the iconic tower of Bodegas Muga marks its location in Haro's Barrio de la Estacion, the winery complex built in 1971 with an on-site cooperage managed by Spain’s only master cooper and where all of Muga’s oak barrels and casks are made. Produced from vines averaging over 37 years of age, the 2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial is a blend of mostly Tempranillo with Garnacha and Graciano sourced from clay-limestone terraces located on the cooler slopes of Montes Obarenes and Sierra Cantabria, the specially selected grapes coming primarily from high altitude vineyards between 430 and 450 meters above sea level stretching from Villalba to Abalos. Fermenting with indigenous yeasts in oak vats, third generation winemaker Jorge Muga aged the enticing and long-lasting 2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial for 26 months in 40% new French oak barrels and 18 months longer in bottle before release, yielding a “complex and nuanced” Rioja according to the Wine Advocate’s Luiz Gutierrez with “abundant, fine-grained tannins and a long, dry and tasty finish.”
Crafted in the style of a traditional Reserva with extended aging, the impressive 95 pt. 2019 Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial is ready to enjoy and built to evolve well over the next 15 years, “a structured, polished delight” according to critic Tim Atkin and a winning choice for Muga’s loyal cult-like following and collectors of age worthy Rioja seeking outstanding value. |