Murrieta YGAY 2012

Rioja wine, Castillo Ygay, is only released in exceptional years, and 2012 proved to be just that. With super concentration, texture, and an incredible sensation of freshness, the 2012 vintage is already being compared to the legendary 1964.

The 2012 wine is a blend of 81% Tempranillo and 19% Mazuelo, aged for 34 months in 225-litre American oak barrels for the Tempranillo and 34 months in 225-litre French oak barrels for the Mazuelo.

The 2012 harvest was excellent in Rioja, but with very low yields due to lack of water during the season. A hot summer was mitigated by late rains, which resulted in small, concentrated berries, but, crucially for Castillo Ygay, with excellent freshness, thanks to the altitude of La Plana. Overall, production was reduced by one third in 2012.

"With its complexity, finesse, and restrained power, this wine comes together to create a potentially legendary offering. Intense aromas of dried flowers, mushrooms, iron, rust, sweet wild berries, and grilled orange. Full-bodied, with elegant, refined tannins that melt in the mouth, providing a true sense of terroir and integrity. Balanced and harmonious. The finesse and finish are endless. Production was 30% lower than in 2011. It is ready to drink now. A wonderful future." 100 points - James Suckling