Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva 2000

Marqués de Murrieta, Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva 2000

Castillo Ygay is only made in years that deserve it. The grapes come from La Plana, the estate's oldest and highest vineyard in Rioja Alta. This 2000 vintage matured for 34 months in oak and then spent another three years in the bottle before release.

What you smell
Dried fruit, cedar, leather, and a hint of tobacco. Beneath that, something earthy, like wet forest floors after a rain shower.

What you taste
Silky smooth and fully integrated. After more than twenty years, the tannins are completely tamed, providing a velvety mouthfeel without any sharpness. The acidity keeps everything fresh, and the finish lingers for minutes. This is a wine that is at its peak now, but with proper storage, it can last for many more years.

How it's made
Tempranillo with a small proportion of Mazuelo, harvested by hand in October. Fermentation in stainless steel, followed by 34 months of aging in oak barrels and three years of bottle aging.

Serving
Serve at 18-19°C. Decant at least an hour beforehand; a large Burgundy glass will best bring out the aromas.

Pairs well with

• Braised lamb shank: the tender texture of the meat and the spiced jus mirror the velvety character of the wine.
• Ibérico ham: the nutty fat of the ham brings out the cedar notes in the wine.
• Aged Manchego: the salty, crystalline texture of the cheese contrasts beautifully with the ripe fruit notes.

Click here for the technical details of this wine

Scores

• Peñín Wine Guide: 95/100 (Best Gran Reserva in Spain)
• Wine Spectator: 92/100
• Falstaff: 92/100
• Wine Enthusiast: 90/100