Marqués de Murrieta, founded in 1852 by Luciano de Murrieta, is celebrated as the founding father of modern Rioja winemaking after he introduced pioneering Bordeaux techniques to the region. This historic estate crafts its world-renowned Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva exclusively from La Plana, an iconic 40-hectare plot of 70-year-old vines planted at the estate's highest altitude of 485 meters.The 2012 growing season in Rioja was defined by a severe, year-long drought and intense summer heat waves. These harsh conditions dramatically reduced berry sizes and slashed overall yields, though they kept the vineyards perfectly free of disease. Ultimately, the high elevation of the La Plana vineyard acted as a crucial buffer against the heat, allowing the grapes to achieve optimal phenolic ripeness while retaining the vibrant acidity and structures essential for this legendary, long-aging vintage.

A blend of 81% Tempranillo, 19% Mazuelo