2001 Marques de Legarda Gran Reserva Rioja

We are thrilled to begin working with the oldest bodega in all Rioja, a winery whose traditionally styled wines may not be well known (yet) but surely will become so after people taste how good they are. Based in the Rioja Alta town of Abalos, Bodegas de la Real Divisa (whose wines sell under the name Marques de Legarda) is not only the oldest bodega in all of Rioja, with a history of vine growing stretching back to the 14th century, but to our knowledge one of the oldest wineries in the world. This important and historical bodega produces wine from their own 30 hectares of vines, primarily Tempranillo with some Graciano and Mazuelo, all located in Abalos. Aged for 37 months primarily in used American oak, with about a 30% portion of used French oak, this is a classic, traditionally styled Gran Reserva from a spectacular vintage. Intense aromas of concentrated red fruit confit leads to a palate with a lovely balance of earthy, sous bois notes and red berries. Balance, elegance and intensity are all there for early enjoyment as well as a long life for those who wish to cellar these.