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Description

The Marqués de Cáceres Excellens Reserva 2020 is a masterclass in modern Rioja winemaking, embodying the perfect marriage between deep-rooted tradition and contemporary elegance. Hailing from the prestigious Rioja Alta region, this wine is crafted primarily from Tempranillo grapes sourced from carefully selected, older vineyards that yield fruit of exceptional concentration and character. The 2020 vintage benefits from the unique terroir of the area—clay-limestone soils that provide the structure and minerality necessary for a balanced, sophisticated wine.

Upon pouring, the wine displays a luminous, deep ruby-red color that immediately signals its quality and concentration. On the nose, it is both intense and inviting, offering a complex bouquet where ripe black fruits like blackberries and plums are seamlessly layered with delicate notes of fine wood, cloves, and a refreshing balsamic undertone. This complexity is the result of meticulous aging: 15 months in fine-grained French oak barrels, followed by a minimum of two years of bottle refinement before release. This patient process transforms the raw power of the fruit into a silky, harmonious experience.

On the palate, the Excellens Reserva reveals its true class. It features a voluminous and smooth entry, with polished, 'goloso' (luscious/sweet-tasting) tannins that give the wine a velvety mouthfeel without any harsh edges. It is a wine that feels complete and well-rounded, maintaining a vibrant freshness that encourages you to take the next sip. The finish is remarkably persistent, leaving lingering impressions of dark fruit, warm spices, and a refined balsamic touch that speaks to its high-quality oak integration.

This is a versatile, gastronomic wine that thrives when paired with hearty, flavorful dishes. It is an ideal companion for roasted lamb, succulent red meats, traditional game stews, or even a sophisticated platter of aged sheep's milk cheeses. Whether you are hosting a formal dinner or simply enjoying an evening of refined relaxation, the Marqués de Cáceres Excellens Reserva 2020 is an accessible yet luxurious choice that represents the very best of Rioja. It is not just a bottle of wine; it is a testament to the Forner family's 1970 vision to elevate Spanish wine to international acclaim. With its excellent aging potential and current approachability, it is a must-have for any collector or enthusiast who appreciates elegance, balance, and the timeless artistry of a well-crafted Reserva.