Marques de Murrieta produces some of the most elegant wines in Rioja, and the 2021 Reserva might just be one of their finest releases to date. The 2021 vintage in this part of Spain was slightly cooler, and the harvest was later than average, so the resulting wine has a gorgeous sense of restraint and finesse, with an emphasis on dried floral notes and bright red fruit. This is unmistakably Rioja in the glass, with classic aromas of cedar, leather and tobacco leaf, but there’s also a freshness on the palate, and the acidity feels bright and energetic, directing the wine into a long finish. Two years spent aging in American oak, followed by several months in concrete, lend additional savory flavors and well-integrated, supple tannins. After 15 minutes or so in the glass, the wine expands aromatically, adding in violet, faint rose petal, and green herbal notes. This is such a pretty, sophisticated style of Rioja and a wine that firmly contradicts anyone who might think Rioja is too earthy or rustic for their palate. At well under $30, this wine is also a stupendous value compared to most other classic wine regions of the world – you’d be hard pressed to find another wine with this level of pedigree and finesse for such a modest price.

The 2021 Marqués de Murrieta Reserva Rioja is composed of 86% Tempranillo, 8% Graciano, 4% Mazuelo, and 2% Garnacha that aged 26 months in 225-liter American oak. Pure elegance and balance. Ripe plum dances with dry red earth, comforting baking spice, black pepper, dried violets, and tobacco. Round, spicy, and sumptuously approachable. Gorgeous and ready to drink now.

A modern classic from one of Rioja’s most storied houses, making wine since 1852. This Reserva—Tempranillo-led with the traditional supporting cast—splits the difference beautifully between old-school Rioja and a fresher, more polished style. Ripe red and black cherry lead, layered with vanilla, sweet spice, cedar, and a savory hint of leather and dried herb from time in oak. The palate is medium- to full-bodied and smooth, with fine-grained tannins and bright acidity keeping it balanced and lively. Approachable now with a short decant, but with the structure to develop over the next 5 to 10 years. Elegant, food-friendly, and a benchmark Reserva—pour it with lamb, roast pork, or a good jamón.