Marqués de Vargas Reserva 2019

The Reserva blend makes use of 34 different parcels on the Marqués de Vargas estate, all of them over 40 years of age. Partnering Tempranillo with a highest ever 19% Mazuelo and 10% Garnacha, it has mint and fresh herb top notes, chalky, focused plum and red cherry fruit, fine oak and no sign of the heat of the vintage. 2024-30

The 2018 Reserva is among my favorite wines from this tasting; it's more fluid, fresher and with contained ripeness and integrated oak. Despite everything, the wine is 14.3% alcohol, but the mouthfeel and overall sensation is different. It was produced with 77% Tempranillo, 12% Mazuelo (Cariñena) and 10% Garnacha that matured in barrel for 22 months.

Black walnuts, incense and dark peppercorn spices to the dark cherries and plums. Pretty elegant and juicy on the palate with a medium body and fresh, juicy tannins. Fresh, vertical and long. Drink now.