($19, Quintessential Wines):  Moving up the Rioja quality ladder brings us to the Reserva category, just below the top level of Gran Reserva.  Rioja Reserva must be aged for a minimum of three years, at least one of which must be in barrel.  This takes us further along the savory spectrum pathway, with less overt fruitiness compared to Muriel’s other two Rioja.  Hints of chocolate, herbs and spice appear.  The additional aging has added a suave, beguiling texture.  It opens beautifully in the glass, displaying more flavors, so this is a wine to savor over a meal.  It’s hard to find a wine with this complexity and texture for less than $20, so I would stock up.
93 Michael Apstein Jun 21, 2022