Muga Crianza 2021 Magnum

As good as you'd expect it to be in a vintage like 2021, a year that Isaac Muga compares to the legendary 2001, this is a beautifully poised blend of Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 3% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo from vineyards around Haro. The French and 20% American oak is very well handled here, framing a palate of bramble, blackberry and sweet spices complemented by chalky minerality and fine tannins. 2026-35

A plush yet fresh Rioja showing blackberries, dark plums, fine spices, cocoa powder and a touch of roasted red chile peppers. Medium- to full-bodied and juicy, with firm, fine-grained tannins and a long, bright finish showing some graphite, blackberries and dark chocolate. Tempranillo, garnacha, graciano and mazuelo. Drink now or hold. - Zekun Shuai, Senior Editor.