Marques de Tomares Gran Reserva 2016

Combining tradition (dating back to 1910) and modern installations, Marqués de Tomares is in Fuenmayor, in the heart of Rioja Alta. It has maintained the mastery of ageing wines in oak barrels that has marked out Rioja Alta wineries for so long. Although most of its production is red, this small-production white wine is a great example of Viura’s potential to improve with age. Pedro Ballesteros Torres, MW: Amazingly young, the wine keeps nice fruit and a fresh balance, with a lingering finish. It’s a style that’s based on deft ageing; a highly enjoyable wine, with a clear identity. Sarah Jane Evans, MW: Delicate aromas of cedar and flowers, and a wonderfully elegant palate, building from a fresh entry to a complex interplay between freshness and oak. Lean, pure and understated. Memorable. Pierre Mansour: Very floral, rose petal nose and a dry, subdued palate. Suprisingly fresh and youthful; a restrained style. More time will reveal its true potential. Drinking window: 2024-2031. Score – 95. (Panel, decanter.com, May 18, 2024)