Description
RIOJA lies in a 30 kilometre-wide valley between the Sierra Cantabrica mountains that run from the Atlantic coast to the Med and the Sistema Iberico that heads towards Spain's high central plateau. The region was the first in Spain to receive DO status in 1926. In fact, it had rules in place governing certain aspects of its wines since 1560!

Up until the late 19th century, its wines tended to be simple and for early drinking. Then phylloxera struck France and sent the Bordelais winemakers fleeing across the border, bringing with them their expertise and their oak barrels. That oak legacy is still strong today in Rioja's Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva wines.

Founded in 1926 by José Murúa Villaverde, Bodegas Muriel lies in the premium Rioja Alavesa. José came from a long line of winemakers but, when it was time for the bodega to be passed onto his five children, none of them was interested. Consequently, the family business was sold. It remained outside the family until 1982, when one of the sons - Julián Murúa Entrena - repurchased the bodega.

He is now continuing the family tradition of winemaking excellence. He has made this wine purely from Rioja's noble grape, Tempranillo, all harvested by hand to ensure the highest quality. The fruit was traditionally vinified at a controlled temperature, then 20% of it aged in barrel for added complexity.

International Wine Challenge 2008, United Kingdom

Tim Atkin - The Observer Magazine 6th July 2008 2008, United Kingdom

The Wine Gang - www.thewinegang.com 2008, United Kingdom

Barón de Barbón Oak-Aged Rioja 2006 is available in the following cases: