2012 Marques de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial Methusalem (6 liter)

The 2012 Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial Methusalem (6L) is a monumental expression of classic Rioja, bottled in an ultra-rare large format that’s built for the long haul. Sourced exclusively from the historic La Plana single vineyard and produced only in truly exceptional years, this is the flagship wine of one of Spain’s most important estates. The 2012 vintage marks the 56th release of Castillo Ygay since 1877 and has achieved the coveted 100/100 score, placing it among the greatest Spanish wines ever made.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2012 Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial shows a deep ruby core with garnet highlights at the rim, reflecting both concentration and graceful evolution. The nose is intense and layered, with aromas of black cherries, ripe plums and dark berry compote, wrapped in notes of black tea, cigar box, cedar, dried violets and Mediterranean herbs. Subtle nuances of dried flowers, tobacco leaf and sweet spices emerge with air, adding further complexity. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, deeply structured and remarkably refined. Polished, fine-grained tannins support a core of dark fruit, while savory notes of leather, forest floor, cocoa and spice give great depth and dimension. The acidity is vibrant yet perfectly integrated, giving the wine lift and freshness despite its power. The finish is long, harmonious and persistent, with layers of fruit, spice and dried floral tones that echo for minutes. In Methusalem format, the aging potential is outstanding: while already mesmerizing on release, this 2012 has the structure and balance to develop gracefully for 20–30+ years, especially in this 6-liter bottle where evolution is slower and more nuanced.

Production
Castillo Ygay originates from the La Plana single vineyard, planted in 1950 and set on a plateau at the highest point of Finca Ygay at around 485 meters above sea level in Rioja Alavesa. The elevated site, with its well-drained soils and marked diurnal temperature swings, yields grapes of exceptional concentration and freshness. The 2012 blend is 81% Tempranillo and 19% Mazuelo, all hand-harvested, with a first rigorous selection in the vineyard and a second on sorting tables at the winery—only the finest berries make it into this Gran Reserva Especial. After fermentation, Tempranillo was aged for 34 months in 225L American oak barrels, while Mazuelo matured for 34 months in 225L French oak, adding structure, spice and tension. Once blended, the wine rested a further 20 months in concrete tanks to harmonize before bottling, followed by several years of bottle aging in the estate’s cellars prior to release. This Methusalem (6L) comes presented in its original lacquered wooden case (OWC), underlining its collectible and celebratory character.

Food & Serving
This is a true meditation wine, ideal for contemplative sipping but also a magnificent partner to refined, slowly cooked dishes. It pairs beautifully with Bresse pigeon, roasted or braised game birds, roast beef tenderloin with wild mushrooms, slow-roasted suckling pig with baked tart apple, or richly sauced lamb dishes. Mature hard cheeses, truffled dishes and earthy mushroom preparations also complement its complexity. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F); in this Methusalem format, decant generously—at least 2–3 hours in advance, and even longer for full aromatic expression. Use large-bowled glasses to allow the wine to unfold its many layers.

Producer
Marqués de Murrieta is one of Rioja’s historic and foundational estates, credited with helping to shape the region’s classic Gran Reserva style in the 19th century. Founded in 1852, the bodega is based at the Finca Ygay estate near Logroño and has long been a benchmark for age-worthy, oak-matured Riojas that combine elegance, longevity and a strong sense of place. Castillo Ygay, first produced in 1877, stands as the jewel of the property and one of Spain’s most iconic wines, with multiple international accolades, including perfect 100-point scores in top vintages such as 2010 and 2012. Today, Marqués de Murrieta is regarded as a reference point not only for Rioja but for Spanish fine wine as a whole, seamlessly blending tradition with meticulous, modern winemaking.

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