Marqués de Murrieta Ygay Coleccion 2100 Tinto Tempranillo Rioja 2006

Tasting note: Marqués de Murrieta Ygay Colección 2100 Tinto Tempranillo Rioja 2006

(Rioja, Spain; Tempranillo (with traces of Garnacha, Mazuelo, Graciano); 13.5-14% alcohol)

General:
The Marqués de Murrieta Ygay Colección 2100 Tinto 2006 is a classic representative of the traditional Rioja winery, which has stood for long-lasting wines true to their terroir since the 19th century. The 2006 vintage in Rioja was characterised by moderate temperatures and balanced ripeness, resulting in structured wines with lively acidity. The Colección 2100, a tribute to the historic origins of the winery, matured for 18 months in American oak barrels and a further year in the bottle to develop complexity and elegance.

Appearance:
Deep garnet red with broad, brick-coloured reflections on the rim. Slight translucency at the core, accompanied by fine sediment and delicate, slow tears in the glass. The colour betrays its maturity, but still retains a vital depth.

Nose:
A complex, tertiary-dominated bouquet: leather, tobacco leaf, cedar wood and dried figs form the foundation. Beneath this, subtle fruity notes of prune, preserved cherry and a smoky spiciness (vanilla, coconut - from the American oak barrel) resonate. Subtle mineral accents (red clay) and a hint of balsamic vinegar round off the flavour.

Palate:
Medium-bodied with silky integrated tannins and lively acidity. Flavours of dried dates, laurel, black pepper and an earthy spiciness (truffle, forest floor) unfold on the palate. The texture is elegant, with a salty-mineral undercurrent and a gentle oak background. The balance between maturity and freshness is remarkable.

Finish:
Long, warm finish with notes of toasted almonds, liquorice and a smoky bitterness reminiscent of dark chocolate. The finish remains structured, carried by a cool line of acidity.

Maturation potential & drinking recommendation:
The wine is at the peak of its drinking maturity, but can develop for another 5-8 years if stored optimally (12-14 °C, dark). Decant 45-60 minutes before serving to separate sediments and allow the flavours to develop.

Matching dishes:
Classic Rioja accompaniments such as leg of lamb with rosemary, chorizo stew, patatas bravas or mature Manchego cheese. Also harmonious with mushroom risotto or tapas.

Rating:
A timeless Rioja that combines the tradition of the Murrieta house and the elegance of the 2006 vintage. Structured but accessible. ★★★★☆ (93/100).

Indication:
The 2006 vintage is often overshadowed by the legendary 2005, but here it shows how balanced conditions can produce long-lived wines. The Colección 2100 reflects Murrieta's focus on American oak, which gives the wine a characteristic sweetness and spice, comparable to Gran Reservas of the 1990s, but with a more modern drinkability. Bottles from stone cellars often retain fresher acidity.