Let’s start by looking at the new 2010 Arienzo de Marques de Riscal Crianza, which is a very fruity, accessible wine, with fresh aromas of peaches and strawberries showing good integration of the oak, with just hints of spices, vanilla and cinnamon, and a round, supple palate. It’s a very good commercial Rioja. Drink 2014-2017. Marques de Riscal purchased the vineyards (300 hectares) and the brand Marques de Arienzo from Pernod-Ricard just before the 2010 harvest (the rest of the vineyards and the winery were acquired by Bodegas Muriel). They have renamed the wine Arienzo de Marques de Riscal, which might be a little confusing for consumers. But the bigger news is that the improvements in viticulture in the last few years can be appreciated in the wines from the 2010 vintage, which I had the chance to preview in a visit to the winery just before joining The Wine Advocate. The style for Marques de Riscal has always been for powerful wines that were bottled and released much earlier than the rest of wines from Rioja following the Bordeaux model. Imported by Southern Wine & Spirits; www.southernwine.com

This polished red is balanced and graceful, with cherry, licorice, leafy and light vanilla flavors that glide across the smooth palate. Harmonious, with enough acidity to remain lively. Drink now through 2018. 73,000 cases made, 3,500 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add