Bodegas Muga is a family-owned Spanish winery founded in 1932 and based in Haro in the Rioja region. The vineyards are located on the foot of the Montes Obarenses within Rioja Alta and benefit from Mediterranean, Atlantic and Continental climatic influences.

Bodegas Muga owns 620 acres of vineyards but also has control over 370 acres owned by vine growers in the area. The soil is mostly clay and limestone divided into small terroirs, each with its own unique and defined personality. The grape varieties are Tempranillo, Garnacha (Grenache), Mazuelo (Carignan) and Graciano for the red wines, Viura (Macabeo) and Malvasia for the whites.

Bodegas Muga has four fermentation rooms containing 90 wooden casks with capacities ranging from three thousand to fifteen thousand kilos. This enables them to make different wines depending on the fruit quality and the vineyards they come from. Traditional methods are followed, using oak throughout all the wine-making process (fermentation, aging and storage). Bodegas Muga is one of the very few Spanish wineries that employ three coopers plus a "cubero" (who specializes in the big casks). Fining (clarification) is done using traditional egg whites in oak containers with capacity for 17,500 liters.

The 2016 Muga Aro is a truly exceptional wine that embodies the essence of Rioja, Spain. With its deep, rich color and enticing aromas, it is sure to captivate even the most discerning wine connoisseurs.

Crafted by the renowned producer Muga, this proprietary blend showcases the unique characteristics of the region. Comprised of a blend of Tempranillo and 30% Graciano, this wine is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that goes into its production.

Upon pouring, the 2016 Muga Aro reveals a bouquet of violets and dark chocolate, enticing the senses with its hedonistic and showy nature. The Graciano grape lends a vibrant and high-pitched quality to the wine, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

On the palate, this wine truly shines. It displays a perfect balance between firm tannins and juicy acidity, creating a texture that is both refined and compelling. Flavors of blackberries, black olives, and chocolate dance on the tongue, accompanied by subtle notes of stone, cement, and dried rosemary.

The 2016 Muga Aro is a wine that can be enjoyed now, but it also has tremendous aging potential. The oak is still present on the nose, hinting at the wine's youthful exuberance. With a cork closure and an alcohol percentage of 14.5%, this wine will continue to evolve and develop in the bottle over the years.

Notable wine critics have praised the 2016 Muga Aro, with Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarding it an impressive score of 96. James Suckling, another renowned critic, was left speechless by this wine, giving it a perfect score of 100. Wine Enthusiast also recognized its excellence, awarding it a score of 96.

In conclusion, the 2016 Muga Aro is a wine that exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship of Rioja winemaking. Its complexity, depth, and balance make it a true standout in the world of red wines. Whether enjoyed now or aged for years to come, this wine is a true treasure that will leave a lasting impression on any wine lover.