Martínez Lacuesta 1964 Reserva Especial

Wine: Martínez Lacuesta 1964 Reserva Especial

Winery: Bodegas Martínez Lacuesta (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 15% Mazuelo, 5% Graciano.
ABV: — (Not specified)

Winemaking

The wine remained between 18 and 24 months in large wooden vats to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilize before racking. It underwent between 84 and 96 months of aging in used 225-liter American oak barrels. A minimum of 3 years of bottle aging followed prior to its commercial release. Interesting fact: For years, this wine was bottled with a special label for the Spanish Royal Household, served as the primary wine at official banquets and during King Juan Carlos I's travels.

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Reddish-ruby color with medium depth; brilliant and clean with coppery and amber reflections. The rim is wide, entirely tawny/brick-colored, and shows no distinction from the meniscus.

 

Nose: It required two hours of aeration after an initially hesitant start that hinted at premature fatigue. However, it gradually opened up without haste. Notes of fine wood, lacquer, cabinetry, wax, and a curious backdrop of sandalwood emerged. As the initial "mist" cleared, a fragile yet beautiful Reserva Especial was revealed—pure, with immense personality and a true expression of Tempranillo. It features wilted flowers, walnut bark, old leather, and a slight vegetal hint of tea leaf and laurel. Classical and masterfully crafted.

 

Palate: Surprisingly solid on the palate. Rocky and ample, gifted with polished tannins and a marked acidity. In peak form—vivacious and brimming with energy. Perhaps the most powerful Martínez Lacuesta tasted to date, though not necessarily the most elegant. An excellent wine from a legendary vintage.

 

Commentary

The 1964 Reserva Especial is a dignified representative of Haro's historical winemaking excellence. Its "rocky" structure and energetic pulse justify its long-standing status as a favorite of the Spanish Royal Household. While it demands patience upon opening, the reward is a pure and honest Tempranillo that stands as a testament to the longevity and character of the 1964 harvest.

 

Personal Score: 93
Tasting Group Average: 91