My favorite Murrieta offering is the luxury cuvee of Dalmau Reserva, a 2,000 case release of splendid Rioja. The finest of the trio is the 1996 Dalmau Reserva. A dense saturated plum/ruby color is followed by aromas of ripe black fruits intermixed with smoked meats, new oak, and game. Full-bodied, moderately tannic, rich, and concentrated, this structured, accessible yet youthful Rioja will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring. It will last for 15+ years.
Importer: William Grant & Sons, Edison, NJ; tel. (732) 225-9000