The 2005 Muriel Reserva was aged in French and American oak for 24 months followed by 2 years of bottle aging prior to release. Medium ruby red in color, it displays a similar but more complex bouquet than the Crianza. Nicely developed traditional Rioja aromas are followed by a medium-bodied, smooth-textured, dense wine with plenty of savory fruit, a firm underpinning, and plenty of length. It is likely to evolve for several years and is a good candidate to see its 20th birthday.
Bodegas Muriel is the third largest landowner in Rioja with all of the following wines produced from 100% Tempranillo. Almost every traditional Rioja producer now feels compelled to make a more fruit-forward, modern-style wine as part of their portfolio.
Importer: Quintessential Wines, Napa, CA; Tel. (707) 226-8300