Marques Riscal 2019/20 XR Riserva

The 2019 season in Rioja was warm and dry, with a benign autumn that allowed grapes to ripen fully while retaining firm acid structure. A late spring frost had minimal impact. The 2020 vintage saw a mild winter, well-balanced rainfall, and steady growing conditions with no extreme heat, setting up a classic ripening cycle.

The XR Reserva is predominantly Tempranillo with a touch of Graciano, grown in clay-limestone soils in Rioja Alavesa. It sees extended ageing in American oak barrels of around 21 to 24 months, followed by further bottle ageing to integrate its layers.

The wine presents a deep garnet hue. On the nose it offers expressive aromas of black cherry, plum, licorice, cinnamon, black pepper, and hints of mocha and espresso. In the mouth it is elegant yet structured, with flavors of blackberry, plum, bittersweet chocolate, forest herbs, and faint notes of savory balsamic. The tannins are polished and fine, supporting a long, savory finish that ends with subtle mineral and spice detail.