Marqués de Riscal, founded in 1858 in the heart of Spain’s Rioja region, stands as a beacon of tradition and innovation in Spanish winemaking. With a history spanning over a century and a half, Marqués de Riscal has become synonymous with quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of Rioja. Join us on a journey to explore the story, philosophy, and the exceptional wines that define Marqués de Riscal.
Historical Roots: Established by Guillermo Hurtado de Amézaga, Marqués de Riscal has been a pioneer in shaping the landscape of Spanish wine. The winery’s name “Marqués de Riscal” pays homage to the original title granted to its founder by Queen Isabella II of Spain.
Commitment to Quality: From its inception, Marqués de Riscal has maintained a commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality. The winery’s dedication to traditional winemaking techniques, combined with a forward-thinking approach, has positioned it as a leader in the Spanish wine industry.
Innovation in Winemaking: Marqués de Riscal is renowned for its innovative spirit. In the 19th century, the winery introduced Bordeaux-style winemaking techniques, including the use of French oak barrels, which was groundbreaking for Rioja at that time. This pioneering approach laid the foundation for modern Spanish winemaking.
Iconic Wine: Marqués de Riscal Rioja Reserva:
- Marqués de Riscal Rioja Reserva: This flagship wine represents the essence of Marqués de Riscal’s winemaking prowess. Crafted primarily from Tempranillo grapes, with a blend of other varietals, the Rioja Reserva undergoes extended aging in American oak barrels, resulting in a wine of complexity, elegance, and aging potential.
Frank Gehry’s “City of Wine”: Marqués de Riscal gained international attention with the creation of the “City of Wine” complex designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. This avant-garde structure, with its titanium ribbons and modern design, serves as both a winery and a luxury hotel, attracting visitors from around the world.
Vineyards and Terroir: Marqués de Riscal owns vineyards across the Rioja region, each contributing distinct characteristics to their wines. The diverse soils and microclimates allow the winery to produce a range of wines that showcase the nuances of Rioja’s terroir.
Commitment to Sustainability: In recent years, Marqués de Riscal has embraced sustainability initiatives in both the vineyard and winery. The winery’s commitment to environmental responsibility aligns with modern values while preserving the legacy and authenticity of their winemaking traditions.
Global Recognition: Marqués de Riscal wines have received acclaim at national and international competitions, earning prestigious awards and high scores from critics. The global recognition is a testament to the winery’s continued commitment to producing wines of the highest caliber.
