Gran Marius RESERVA Seleccion 2016

94 POINTS | Bob Campbell MW

We've developed a massive following for the Almansa wines of Bodegas Piqueras. Importer Steve Bennett MW calls them the best value wines he has encountered in his long career in the trade, and when you've sold as much wine as Steve has, there are few higher recommendations. 

Gran Marius Reserva Seleccion is made from hand harvested grapes from low-yielding vineyards and is a blend of 25% Tempranillo, 25% Monastrell, 25% Garnacha Tintorera and 25% Syrah. The wine has had all possible attention in the winery and what a showstopper it is. It has had extended aging in 50% French and 50% American oak barrels and enjoyed long term cellaring at the winery prior to release.

This is a rich, opulent wine with robust but nonetheless juicy dark fruit flavours. The mid-palate is exquisite with plenty of graceful power. The finish is fresh and long with creamy acidity and good tannin structure. It is a richly layered and multi-dimensional blend that is drinking superbly - but still has plenty of gas in the tank should you choose to further cellar. Amazing value.