A Special Edition from Rioja's Most Historic Estate — Named for the Spirit That Built It

My Wine Man on Marqués de Riscal

Marqués de Riscal is not just one of Rioja's oldest and most celebrated estates — it is the house that effectively created the modern Rioja wine industry. Founded in 1858 by Guillermo Hurtado de Amezaga, the Marqués de Riscal, the estate introduced Bordeaux winemaking techniques to Spain at a time when such an idea was considered radical, even reckless. The name itself — Riscal, meaning "risk" — is woven into the estate's DNA, and the 'Risk All' Special Edition is a direct celebration of that founding spirit: the audacity to challenge convention, to bet everything on a vision, and to build something that endures. Today, Marqués de Riscal is one of the most recognised wine labels in the world, producing Rioja Reserva of consistent quality, character, and depth from its historic vineyards in Élciego, in the heart of Rioja Alavesa.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby with a vibrant, youthful core. The nose is immediately expressive and inviting — dark cherry, blackcurrant, and ripe plum lead, layered with notes of cedar, vanilla, warm spice, and a subtle earthiness that speaks of Rioja's distinctive clay and limestone soils. The oak integration is seamless — the wine spent 24 months in American and French oak, adding structure and complexity without overwhelming the fruit. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and generous — rich, velvety tannins, warm spice, and a long, satisfying finish with a touch of tobacco and dried herbs. A classic, beautifully crafted Rioja Reserva with real depth and character.

Style & Drinking Window

Full-bodied, structured Rioja Reserva with excellent depth, balance, and length. Drinking beautifully now and will continue to develop through 2030–2034. Decant for 30–45 minutes to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full complexity. Serve at 16–18°C in a large Bordeaux glass.

Food Pairing

A structured Rioja Reserva with this much oak, spice and Spanish heritage calls for a classic Spanish-inspired pairing. We love it with Australian Grass-Fed Cape Grim Rib-Eye Steak from My Meat Man — char-grilled rare over hot coals with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and sea salt, the rich marbling and beefy depth are a magnificent match for the Risk All's dark cherry, vanilla oak and warm Rioja spice. The classic Spanish steakhouse pairing.

Why This Is a Smart Buy

At HK$199, the 2021 Marqués de Riscal 'Risk All' Special Edition Rioja Reserva delivers one of Spain's most iconic wine experiences at a price that makes it an outstanding everyday luxury. Rioja Reserva of this pedigree — from a historic estate with over 165 years of winemaking heritage, aged 24 months in oak — regularly commands HK$280–380+ at retail. The 'Risk All' Special Edition adds a collector's dimension to an already exceptional wine.

Looking for a Different Style?

If you'd like to explore other exceptional Spanish reds from our range, consider these alternatives:

• 2017 Torres Perpetual Priorat DOCa — Old-vine Garnacha-Cariñena from Spain's highest appellation — mineral, savoury, and complex.
• 2018 Clos de los Siete by Michel Rolland — peer value Spanish-style Bordeaux blend from Mendoza, Argentina.
• 2018 Casalforte Valpolicella Ripasso DOC — peer Italian everyday red, Ripasso method for added richness.