Wine: Muga 1987 Gran Reserva (Magnum)
Winery: Bodegas Muga (Haro, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 70% Tempranillo, 30% Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano
ABV: 12.5%
Winery: Bodegas Muga (Haro, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 70% Tempranillo, 30% Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano
ABV: 12.5%
Winemaking:
The majority of the grapes are sourced from estate vineyards, with the remainder from trusted small growers in Rioja Alta. Each varietal is vinified separately. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in large-capacity vats, followed by racking into clean tanks using a traditional filter of dried grape stalks. The wine rests for 12 months in vats and horizontal tanks to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilization. It is aged for 36 months in used American and French oak barrels of various ages, many crafted in the winery's own cooperage. The wine undergoes several manual barrel-to-barrel rackings each year. Clarified with fresh egg whites. Limited production of 6,047 magnums. Aged for a minimum of two years in the winery’s underground cellars before release.
The majority of the grapes are sourced from estate vineyards, with the remainder from trusted small growers in Rioja Alta. Each varietal is vinified separately. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in large-capacity vats, followed by racking into clean tanks using a traditional filter of dried grape stalks. The wine rests for 12 months in vats and horizontal tanks to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilization. It is aged for 36 months in used American and French oak barrels of various ages, many crafted in the winery's own cooperage. The wine undergoes several manual barrel-to-barrel rackings each year. Clarified with fresh egg whites. Limited production of 6,047 magnums. Aged for a minimum of two years in the winery’s underground cellars before release.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Ruby-red with medium-high depth; well-extracted and dark, yet clear and
pristine with no signs of sediment. Refulgent and brilliant, displaying
pomegranate and copper iridescence. The rim is broad and orange-toned.
Nose:
Initially presents medium-intensity aromas—poised and unhurried. It is
framed by elegant fine wood and toasted notes in the foreground that
slowly soften without fully disappearing. It gives way to candied red
fruit, violet candies, sweet spices, and a botanical backdrop of
geraniums, withered petals, and Maraska cherries in liqueur. Clean,
precise, and attractive, with a profile that feels somewhat "more
modern" than Muga’s pre-1987 Gran Reserva.
Palate:
Follows the same upward trajectory as the nose. It builds from strength
to strength without hesitation, tightening and revealing great nerve as
it breathes. Tart and well-structured, it is silky and enveloping on
the palate, with tamed yet present tannins. Vibrant and anchored by its
fruit and a lively acidity that provides immense freshness. Massive!
Commentary:
The few Gran Reserva bottles Muga produced during the 1980s are performing at a fantastic level today, particularly in this Magnum format. This 1987 is showing beautifully, and the best is likely yet to come.
The few Gran Reserva bottles Muga produced during the 1980s are performing at a fantastic level today, particularly in this Magnum format. This 1987 is showing beautifully, and the best is likely yet to come.
Personal Score: 94
Tasting Group Average: 94
Tasting Group Average: 94
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