Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Tinto Gran Reserva

Brand and Heritage of Marqués de Cáceres

Marqués de Cáceres, a globally recognized name in the world of winemaking, stands tall among Spain’s most prestigious wine producers. Established in 1970 by Enrique Forner, this revered winery is nestled in the heart of Cenicero, Rioja Alta. Here, the Forner family introduced a Bordeaux-inspired philosophy, setting new standards in quality and innovation. This blend of traditional Rioja winemaking and modern techniques has positioned Marqués de Cáceres as an emblem of excellence, evident in its esteemed Gran Reserva wines.

Understanding Gran Reserva

In Rioja, the Gran Reserva designation is synonymous with exceptional quality. These wines are crafted only in years when the harvest meets the most demanding criteria. The extended aging process—a minimum of five years, including two years in oak barrels and three years in bottles—imparts a depth of flavor and complexity that is truly unparalleled. This rigorous maturation process ensures a smooth and refined interplay of aromas and flavors, defining the elegance that wine connoisseurs seek in a Gran Reserva.

The Vineyard Craft

The Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Tinto Gran Reserva is a masterpiece primarily composed of Tempranillo, the quintessential Rioja grape. This varietal grants the wine its solid structure and rich tapestry of red and dark fruit flavors. Complementary notes of Graciano introduce acidity and freshness, while Garnacha enriches the wine with its fullness and additional fruity layers. Grapes are meticulously hand-picked from mature vineyards boasting clay-limestone soils, which are vital in fostering the distinct flavors under the favorable climate of Rioja Alta.

Artisanal Winemaking

Marqués de Cáceres insists on the highest quality from vine to glass. The harvest involves precise hand-selection of grapes from vines typically over 30 years old, ensuring the ideal concentration of flavors. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks preserves the intrinsic fruit characteristics while controlled temperatures guide the optimal extraction process. Aged in American oak barrels, with a fraction matured in French oak, the wine benefits from added complexity. This essential aging enhances the tertiary aromas that develop during bottle maturation, delivering a wine of profound depth and sophistication.

Tasting Profile

• Color: Commanding deep ruby with garnet edges, illustrating the aging elegance.
• Nose: An intoxicating bouquet of ripe blackberries, cherries, interlaced with cocoa, vanilla, and hints of leather and tobacco.
• Taste: The wine offers a full-bodied palate, showcasing velvety tannins balanced by subtle acidity. Layers of dark fruit, nuanced spice, and oak nuances culminate in a long, refined finish.

Culinary Companions

This Gran Reserva complements a diverse array of dishes, from robust red meats like roast lamb and beef to intricate flavors in traditional Spanish stews. Its complexity also pairs well with aged cheeses, enhancing the epicurean experience.

Perfect for Long-term Enjoyment

Serve Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Tinto Gran Reserva slightly chilled at 16–18°C, preferably after decanting for an hour. This preparation allows the wine’s intricate flavors to express themselves fully. Its structure supports an aging potential of over two decades, making each sip a journey through time.

Embodying the nobility and intricate craftsmanship of Rioja, Marqués de Cáceres Gran Reserva is not just a wine, but a testament to the region’s vinous heritage, promising a sensory experience that will linger long after your last sip.