*** 91 Points - Robert Parker Jnr Wine Advocate *** Country: Spain Region: Rioja Varietal: Tempranillo / Garnacha Blend Vintage: 2018  Colour:  Red Style : Dry Producer: Bodegas Muga Description: Bodegas Muga vineyards are located on the foot of the Montes Obarenses, within the area called Rioja Alta. The site climate is exceptional due to, on the one hand, the singular geography and orientation of the vines and on the other hand, the surrounding climates : Mediterranean, Atlantic and Continental climates are combined harmoniously thus creating a suitable climatic site for growing grapes. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts in oak vats. Aged for 24 months in casks made in their own cooperage from selected oak. Prior to bottling the wine is finned with fresh egg white. Once bottled it is left to undergo a rounding process for twelve months in the cellar, as a minimum. Grapes: 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 10% Mazuelo (Carignan) and Graciano. Ageing: 6 months in traditional American and French oak vats, 24 months in small oak barrels and a minimum of 12 months in bottle. Tasting Note:Here we find a wine with medium-high depth of colour, black-cherry red with garnet hues. Dense legs which give us a wrapping sequence in the glass.First, red-fruit notes such as blackberries appear, with reminders of fennel, scrubby heathland, all nicely balanced by the smoked aromas from the time spent in medium-toasted wood. Underlying hints of vanilla pod coming through with coffee notes.Full mouth-feel with slightly mentholated nuances and white chocolate. The vanilla reappears and those red-berry fruit aromas we found on the nose persist, with an elegant acidity which makes the aftertaste long.Food pairing:This wine can be paired with veal, Iberian pork charcuterie and some types of casseroles (stew). Food Matches:Goat Cheese / Beef / Lamb / Veal