Muga 2006 Gran Reserva Prado Enea
Since the XVII century, the Muga family has been linked to the wine world and to the area of Rioja. Fast forward to 1932 when Bodega Muga Winery was founded and today the winery operates with the same principals it did almost 100 years ago. Muga also has its own cooperage and is able to control the right touch of oak desired in its offerings. 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 for grape growing.
Opening a bottle, which I let sit for about an hour, the color was a glowing bright ruby. The nose was clean with plenty of ripe red and black fruits with a touch of spice and herbs. The wine is made from a blend of 80% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano and aged for three years in oak and another three years in the bottle before release, remarkable aging practice. The palate was complex with ripe red berries, blackberries and hints of dried fruits, well integrated oak and acidity with nuances of earth, pepper, tobacco, toast and vanilla. The finish was smooth with fine tannins and mineral notes, complex and lingering. Outstanding! This wine, a gift from my son, was remarkable and impressive. I should note that this wine is not produced every year. The grapes are grown in higher altitudes and experience a cooler climate, and if too cold, Muga doesn’t get the magic they put the bottle. Accordingly, in 2007 & 2008 the climate was too cool and therefore the Prado Enea wine was not produced. The next vintage to be released will be the 2009. Search for the 2006 and put one of these bargains away, you will really enjoy it.
Cheers!