Marqués de Murrieta, Castillo Ygay, Gran Reserva Especial 2000

90 / 100 Robert Parker
There are 8400 cases of the 2000 Gran Reserva Especial Castillo Ygay, a blend of 87% Tempranillo and 13% Mazuelo aged for 34 months in American oak barriques. Deep crimson-colored, it offers up an enticing perfume of cedar, pencil lead, earth notes, and black fruits. This leads to a supple-textured, layered wine with ample black cherry, spice, and blackberry flavors. The lengthy wine has excellent grip and enough structure to evolve for another 3-5 years. It should be at its peak from 2010 to 2022. Marques de Murietta remains a benchmark for traditional Rioja. Like many traditional producers in Rioja, Marques de Murietta has begun fashioning a modern (some would say international) style of Rioja.
176, The Wine Advocate

88 / 100 Wine Spectator
Tobacco, cedar and leather notes mingle in this traditional red. A bit austere, but structured, balanced and food-friendly. Drink now. 8,416 cases made.
http://www.winespectator.com/wine/detail/note_id/236445