2018 Bodegas Muga Reserva, Rioja DOCa, Spain (750m)

  Winemaker Notes:  The wine has a bright ruby-red color with medium depth and a garnet rim. Intense and complex on the nose, where you can find primary fruit aromas of raspberry and blackberry, secondary aromas of vanilla and licorice and a subtle hint of tertiary aromas such as chocolate and ripe fruit. Very well-balanced on the palate, with good acidity and soft tannins. The finish is long and fruity. Perfect for enjoying now, but also thanks to its great balance and structure, a wine you can lay down for a number of years. This wine will make an excellent match for meat dishes, such as T-bone steak, and also with charcuterie and all kinds of casseroles.   Tasting Notes:  This was the only red that Muga made in 2018, and the wines from the best vineyards went into the blend. In other words, top vineyards were declassified. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that are caressing and refined. Plenty of subtle berries, chocolate and walnuts. - James Suckling, 94 pts.  The 2018 Muga Res