Miguel Merino Reserva 2017

We have a very limited quantity of Miguel Merino’s Reserva. The Riserva is a different and older vineyard source than Vinas Jovenes, with the average vine-age hovering around 50 years old. The wine is raised in American oak barrels with French heads for two years, and then for two years in the bottle. This actually means that by the time you purchase it, the wine could technically be labeled Gran Reserva. 

They like to describe their style as “updated classic,” meaning they use a mix of French and American oak and craft wines with a fresher, brighter fruit component. That style is evident here with ripe, fresh fruit character. The oak frames the fruit with a mix of savory and sweet spices; that classic Rioja leathery earthiness is present but subdued. The tannins are present and polished and there is a fine lingering earthiness on the finish of the wine.

And for me, “updated classic” succinctly describes this wine. Stylish yet deftly built around its high quality fruit. Elegant, yet still savory and with Rioja’s aged sense of polish. And finally, delicious to drink.