Martinez Lacuesta 2014 Reserva, Hinia Tempranillo

Drinking beautfully at 12 years, this is a must try! For lovers of classical Rioja, three names define the old guard in Haro: López de Heredia, La Rioja Alta, and **Martínez Lacuesta**. While the first two are already staples for many of you, the third is a true hidden gem—until now.

Despite such association with "known" Haro royalty (i.e. the Lopez de Heredia family), there is indeed a good reason that few of you are familiar: only 7% of Bodega Martinez Lacuesta production makes it out of Spain, in contrast to the norm in Rioja which today sits at a 43% export rate, making it one of Spain’s most tightly held treasures.
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It is a long story, but in a nutshell, the winery's fourth-generation operators two years ago carefully brought in a few employees from outside of the family tree as a sort of "bridge" to the outside world. These "additions" started to welcome journalists, further focused the lineup, and packaging has returned to the original/classic pre-1970s aesthetic. In other words, the communication and perception surrounding Lacuesta have just now changed in a sudden and massive way, while the wines and their character remain essentially the same as they were 20, 30, 50, and 80 years ago.

From Jeb Dunnuck (93pts): Released 11 years after bottling, the 2014 Hinia is a traditional blend of Tempranillo (85%), Graciano (10%), and Mazuelo (5%), aged 26 months in older American oak barrels. Made in a more upfront ripe, fruity style than barrel-dominant, it has a depth of full-bodied red fruit, fine tannins, and great acidity that helps balance the concentration. There’s a touch of dried fruit and balsamic on the finish. It should last another 10 years.

Martínez Lacuesta is poised to be the most exciting development in traditional Rioja over the next two decades. The wines have always been exceptional; now, finally, they’re available.