Finca del Marquesado Gran Reserva 2008

Valdemar is run by the Martínez Bujanda clan – a Riojan dynasty that stretches back five generations. Proprietor Jesús Martínez Bujanda took parcels of his finest, strawberry scented Tempranillo and added Graciano and Mazuelo (for extra aromatic complexity and freshness), before tucking it away in expensive oak barrels for over two years. The result is a remarkable Gran Reserva with subtle aromas of simmered black fruits, lifted by elegant floral and vanilla notes, plus an intense core of ripe raspberry and blackberry with a long toasty oak finish. Jesús has sent us precious few cases of this luxurious gem – not much was made in fact – so best to take stock of a few bottles and reserve for a special occasion. Glorious with rack of lamb.