Muga Reserva “Seleccion Especial” Rioja 2018

Muga Reserva "Seleccion Especial" Rioja 2018 is a finely crafted dry red wine, a blend primarily of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano grapes, sourced from the renowned Rioja region in Spain. This "Seleccion Especial" is a testament to the high quality and unique character of Muga's vineyards, undergoing meticulous aging in French oak barrels for 26 months, which enhances its complexity and elegance. It epitomizes the dedication to traditional winemaking practices while embracing the nuanced diversity of the Rioja terroir, making it a standout selection for those seeking a wine with depth and distinction.

Muga Winery has always used the highest quality raw materials and new production methods that provide increased quality without losing any authenticity. They use a traditional approach in the production of all their wines: Wine decanting is done using gravity, which is the traditional method. They are also the only winery in Spain with a master brewer and three in-house boarders. As they themselves say: "Since 1932, we are proud to give a name to a great wine." This terroir is one of the terroirs that best captures the character of the wines produced in Haro. The geological and climatic characteristics of the terroir give the wine a special character with remarkable aging potential, making El Estepal unique in the La Rioja region. A few miles from Haro lies a plateau with a very unusual geological structure, sheltered from the cold northerly winds. In short - La Loma is an excellent terroir. The first vineyards of the Muga family are located here. The high quality of our finest wines is ensured by this beautiful area. Here the grapes of Tempranillo, Mazuelo / Carignan and Graciano are grown and wonderful wines are produced. This terroir is an example of the family's efforts to ensure quality in the future. Muga is constantly investing in the best soil in the area. We try to provide our vines with not only the best quality terroirs, but also carefully work to select the best specimens for planting. These vineyards are at the highest point of the La Rioja region and are at the very edge of our territory. There are only a few winemakers who grow grapes in such harsh conditions, but our special growing system allows us to grow high quality grapes and unleash the potential of each of our terroirs. The resulting grapes have very good acidity values ​​and excellent aging potential.

The 2018 “Seleccion Especial” unfolds on the nose with an expressive bouquet of dark berries, vanilla, and hints of tobacco, underlined by a subtle earthiness that speaks to its terroir-driven character. On the palate, it is both rich and structured, offering a harmonious blend of ripe fruit, such as black cherries and plums, woven together with notes of spice, leather, and a well-integrated oak presence, leading to a long, satisfying finish. Its elegance and complexity are a reflection of the exceptional vintage and skilled craftsmanship behind its creation.

When pairing Muga Reserva “Seleccion Especial” Rioja 2018 with food, consider robust dishes such as roasted meats, particularly lamb or beef, which can stand up to the wine’s intensity and complexity. It also pairs beautifully with aged hard cheeses, where the nutty and savory flavors of the cheese complement the wine’s depth and layered nuances. These pairings are ideal for showcasing the wine’s versatility and enhancing the dining experience.