Miguel Merino is somewhat unusual in that he chooses to release the same vintage of Reserva and Gran Reserva side by side, rather than a younger vintage of Reserva next to an older vintage of Gran Reserva. This makes for a fascinating comparison, with the main differences being time spent in barrel and the type of oak used for aging. The 2019 Reserva is made from mostly Tempranillo, with just a dash of Graciano, aged for two years in an interesting hybrid barrel of sorts: the staves are made from American oak and the heads are made from French oak, allowing the two flavor profiles to meld from the earliest stages of maturation. The barrels are 70% new, imparting a clear savory and dried herb component to the wine, along with dried tobacco, leather and toasted hazelnut. Now with over four years of bottle age, this Rioja is absolutely singing, with seamlessly integrated supple tannins and lovely, refreshing acidity. For me, this Rioja sits perfectly in the middle of a traditionally styled Rioja and one with more modern sensibilities – it seems to have one foot in the past honoring Miguel Sr. and one foot firmly in the present, showcasing the forward-thinking style of Miguel Jr. It’s clearly of the region, but it is a wonderfully elegant, light-footed version of a Rioja Reserva.

This is, by far, one my most favorite Rioja's that I have tasted since the beginning of the year. Like the "Vinas Jovenes" Rioja from this producer, it is cherry dominant though the fruit in this one run more toward darker cherries combined with increased rustic elements of more traditional Rioja. There are earthy scents, tobacco, baking spices, herbs. The fuller mouthfeel integrates with the traditional elements most brilliantly and the overall effect is one of increased complexity. I was quite astounded by the price to quality ratio! It's just a wonderful bottling and can drink beautifully now or it should cellar well for several more years.

This is Rioja with depth, patience, and real class. Layers of dried cherry, plum skin, tobacco, and warm baking spice unfold slowly from the glass, giving a wine beautifully mature and composed despite its youthful energy. The palate is silky and deeply savory, with finely integrated oak framing the fruit rather than overpowering it. There’s a quiet intensity here—nothing flashy, just confident winemaking and exceptional balance. The finish lingers with notes of leather, crushed herbs, and earthy minerality, making this a Reserva that feels both timeless and remarkably polished.