Wine: Marqués de Riscal 1951 ReservaWinery: Marqués de Riscal (Elciego, Álava)
Appellation: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 60% Tempranillo, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon
ABV: [Not specified]
Appellation: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 60% Tempranillo, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon
ABV: [Not specified]
Winemaking
The blend includes a negligible percentage of white varietals (primarily Viura), as it was customary at the time to plant a few white vines at the head of the rows for family consumption, which were ultimately harvested and processed alongside the red grapes. The wine was aged for 5 to 7 years in seasoned 225-liter American oak barrels. Regular rackings were performed every three months during the first three years to avoid the need for filtration prior to bottling. Clarified through traditional methods using fresh egg whites and bottled by hand directly from the cask.
The blend includes a negligible percentage of white varietals (primarily Viura), as it was customary at the time to plant a few white vines at the head of the rows for family consumption, which were ultimately harvested and processed alongside the red grapes. The wine was aged for 5 to 7 years in seasoned 225-liter American oak barrels. Regular rackings were performed every three months during the first three years to avoid the need for filtration prior to bottling. Clarified through traditional methods using fresh egg whites and bottled by hand directly from the cask.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Ruby-red of medium depth; remarkably stable color and very clean. It
features a broad orange rim with distinct contrast against the meniscus.
Nose: Good intensity; extroverted, mature, and slightly sweet in profile. Initially, it reveals a potent layer of vanilla, dulce de leche,
Werther's Original caramel, and cocoa butter—unusual for the typical
Riscal style. This initial layer conceals a second, deeper, and purer
dimension that takes time to emerge. After two hours of aeration, the
wine brings forth notes of aromatic coffee, a hint of Zara-style black
licorice, dried herbs, and earthy undertones, followed by iron and
blood-like nuances. It becomes increasingly elegant and fragrant.
Finally, a masterclass in fine reduction unfolds: leather, antique
furniture, tung oil, seasoned staves, smoke, leaf litter, humus, and
dried mushrooms. It continues to improve with every minute.
Palate:
Silky texture accompanied by intense acidity. Savory, with almost tart,
piquant notes and a saline touch that counters a hint of sweetness of
extraordinary quality. Highly complex, distinguished, and replete with
detail. The ensemble is perfectly spherical, gaining maturity and black
fruit character as it sits. The Cabernet Sauvignon influence shines
through in moments, bringing candied blackcurrants and myrtle with a balsamic, almost mentholated edge that flickers in and out.
Oozing personality. A harmonious red that demands undivided attention.
Its structural integrity after more than 60 years is staggering—a
testament to Riscal’s mastery in a vintage as challenging as 1951.
Personal Score: 94
Tasting Group Score: 96
Tasting Group Score: 96
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