2021 Muga Aro

The impeccable 2021 Aro is a triple-selection of vines from six different Muga vineyards, all planted to older vines, a selection of a selection resulting in 70% Tempranillo and 30% Graciano here. The addition of Graciano is bold and groundbreaking; very few wines at this level of quality tend to include it, but here we are, it’s made its case. Not made every year, it was produced in 2010, 2015, 2016, 2019 (another 100-point year), and 2021, with about 6,200 bottles made, but there will only be 2,000 bottles or so of the 2022. Black olive, balsamic, textured woody notes, and a depth of full-bodied berry fruit meld together seamlessly across velvety tannins and a firm structure. It should hit its prime in about 8-10 years and glide elegantly into the future another 20-30.

The impeccable 2021 Aro is a triple-selection of vines from six different Muga vineyards, all planted to older vines, a selection of a selection resulting in 70% Tempranillo and 30% Graciano here. The addition of Graciano is bold and groundbreaking; very few wines at this level of quality tend to include it, but here we are, it’s made its case. Not made every year, it was produced in 2010, 2015, 2016, 2019 (another 100-point year), and 2021, with about 6,200 bottles made, but there will only be 2,000 bottles or so of the 2022. Black olive, balsamic, textured woody notes, and a depth of full-bodied berry fruit meld together seamlessly across velvety tannins and a firm structure. It should hit its prime in about 8-10 years and glide elegantly into the future another 20-30.

A rich red, offering depth and focus, with an enticing core of blackberry coulis and plum sauce, plus accents of star anise, wild thyme and ground coffee brightened by mouthwatering acidity and well-meshed, muscular tannins. Long, expressive and harmonious, with pretty floral, spice and mineral aromatics echoing on the finish. Tempranillo and Graciano. Drink now through 2045. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 430 cases made, 50 cases imported.