94pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2004 Muga Reserva Seleccion Especial is deep crimson-colored. Dense and packed, it offers up aromas of cedar, spice box, mineral, pencil lead, and assorted black fruits. It nicely conceals enough structure for 6-8 years of evolution. This lengthy effort should drink well through 2030.

93pts Vinous

(the same blend as the Reserva) Saturated ruby color. Oak-spiced raspberry and boysenberry aromas are complemented by smoky minerals, pipe tobacco and incense. Broad and fleshy in the mouth, displaying impressively concentrated red and dark berry liqueur flavors and a late note of candied licorice. A strong cherry-vanilla quality lingers on the long, sappy finish. Extremely impressive Rioja, deftly balancing energy and power.

92pts Wine Spectator

Ripe black fruit flavors mingle with espresso, anise and mint notes in this bold red. Firm tannins support a thick texture; there's plenty of oak and alcohol, but enough acidity for balance. 

Winery Notes

Bodegas Muga is a family business founded by Isaac Muga and Aurora Caño in 1932, which is located in the historic Barrio de La Estación (Station Quarter) of Haro. With an area of around 25,000 square metres, it is home to both the most traditional winemaking methods and the latest cutting-edge techniques.