Wine: Muga 1976 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Muga (Haro, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 40% Tempranillo, 40% Garnacha, 10% Mazuelo, 10% Viura
ABV: 12.5%
Winery: Bodegas Muga (Haro, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 40% Tempranillo, 40% Garnacha, 10% Mazuelo, 10% Viura
ABV: 12.5%
Winemaking:
40% of the grapes are sourced from estate vineyards, with the remainder provided by small growers in Rioja Alta and trusted producers. Each varietal is vinified separately in 18,000-liter oak vats. A traditional filtration method using dried grape stalks is used during racking. The wine rests for 12 months in vats and horizontal tanks to complete malolactic fermentation. It is aged for 36 to 48 months in used American oak barrels (averaging 12 years of age, crafted in-house) with manual rackings every four months. Clarified with fresh egg whites and aged for a minimum of six years in the winery’s underground cellars before its release in the early 1980s.
40% of the grapes are sourced from estate vineyards, with the remainder provided by small growers in Rioja Alta and trusted producers. Each varietal is vinified separately in 18,000-liter oak vats. A traditional filtration method using dried grape stalks is used during racking. The wine rests for 12 months in vats and horizontal tanks to complete malolactic fermentation. It is aged for 36 to 48 months in used American oak barrels (averaging 12 years of age, crafted in-house) with manual rackings every four months. Clarified with fresh egg whites and aged for a minimum of six years in the winery’s underground cellars before its release in the early 1980s.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Translucent ruby-red with medium depth; very clear, brilliant, and
luminous. Displays pomegranate and orange reflections. Clean and free of
sediment. The rim is broad and copper-toned, blending seamlessly with
the meniscus.
Nose:
Firm and expressive, possessed of an immense personality. It unfolds a
mixture of freshly baked sponge cake, sweet spices, and stewed red fruit
(cherries in liqueur), complemented by a subtle medicinal and aniseed
backdrop. As it breathes, it gains complexity, revealing balsamic notes,
discreet seasoned wood, smoke, crushed peppercorns, earthy undertones,
and coffee beans.
Palate:
Delicate and caressing, showing higher acidity and energy than in
previous tastings. The core is ripe—almost candied—yet retains
remarkable freshness. Over time, it becomes perfectly integrated,
showcasing a stunning Garnacha character and very fine bitters. A
savory, balanced, and fully resolved Gran Reserva. Pure pleasure.
Commentary:
An outstanding bottle that defies its age with unexpected vibrancy. The prominence of the Garnacha provides a luscious, velvety core that harmonizes beautifully with Muga’s traditional oxidative spice.
An outstanding bottle that defies its age with unexpected vibrancy. The prominence of the Garnacha provides a luscious, velvety core that harmonizes beautifully with Muga’s traditional oxidative spice.
Personal Score: 94
Tasting Group Average: 93
Price: €105
Tasting Group Average: 93
Price: €105
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