The Rioja Alta wine region, located in northern Spain, is one of the three subregions of the renowned Rioja wine-producing area. Its winemaking history stretches back centuries, with evidence of viticulture during Roman times and significant development during the Middle Ages, influenced by the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Monasteries along this historic trail cultivated vineyards and advanced winemaking techniques, creating the foundation for Rioja Alta’s celebrated wine culture. Over time, this region became synonymous with high-quality, age-worthy wines, with its unique terroir, marked by limestone and clay soils and a moderate climate featuring Tempranillo and Garnacha native grapes of this region. The Ebro River which flows through the heart of Rioja, acts as a natural boundary between Rioja Alta and its neighboring subregion, Rioja Alavesa.
Producers like Marqués de Cáceres known for their modern yet traditional approach, have helped define Rioja Alta’s global reputation. Iconic wines such as Muga Prado Enea, celebrated for its rich complexity and aging potential, and Bodegas Urbina Gran Reserva Especial, revered for its refined elegance and exceptional craftsmanship, all highlight the diversity and quality of Rioja Alta’s offerings. The region gained international acclaim in the 19th century when the phylloxera plague drove French winemakers to the area, bringing their winemaking expertise in barrel aging and blending. Today, Rioja Alta remains a symbol of excellence.
Marques de Caceres Grand Reserva 2010
Rioja Alta, SP
85% Tempranillo, 8% Garnacha tinta, 7% Graciano
Although the Gran Reserva may present itself as a more luxurious wine, it is better described as a very nice table wine. With a production of approximately 230,000 bottles, it is not rare by any standard. However, it remains a good, solid, and reasonably priced option.
I anticipated this bottle to be quite tight and closed, which is typical of this winemaker’s style. On the nose, it revealed notes of blackberry, blueberry, oak, tobacco, and pepper. The palate offered hints of blackcurrant, balsamic undertones, refined oak, and a subtle touch of clove. It featured a silky, full-bodied texture with mature tannins, medium acidity, and a slight kick on the finish.
Muga Prado Enea Gran Reserva 2006
Haro, Rioja Alta Rioja, SP
80% Tempranillo with Garnach, Mazuelo & Graciano
These wines are typically ready to drink 10 years after release, but they only improve with an additional 10–15 years of cellaring. With a few bottles on hand, I decided it was time to give this one a try.
It was an exceptional bottle. Decanted for just over an hour, it continued to evolve beautifully with more time and air.
Medium ruby in color with a slight garnet hue, it offered captivating aromas of earthy licorice and leather, with dried herbs lingering in the background. On the palate, it was full-bodied, showcasing dried black fruits—predominantly blackberry—alongside dried herbs, potpourri, forest floor, and well-integrated oak reminiscent of cedar. The wine had high acidity, soft yet pronounced tannins, and a long finish featuring notes of black pepper, licorice, and leather.
Distinctly Rioja, it was refined, subdued, and elegantly balanced.
Urbina Gran Reserva Especial 1994
Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón, Rioja Alta, SP
90% Tempranillo, 5% Mazuelo, 5% Graciano
This was my last bottle, and all signs pointed to 2024 as the perfect year to enjoy it. It definitely needed time to open up, but once it did, the nose was simply wonderful. After some air, it revealed notes of oak, mushrooms, coriander, earth, dark cherries, purple plums, and dried fruits.
On the palate, it was medium-bodied with nice acidity and fine tannins still present. Surprisingly fresh for its age, it delivered a good finish. Refined and elegant, this wine was a truly wonderful way to close out Noche Buena (Christmas Eve dinner).