A benchmark in Rioja for over 160 years, Marqués de Riscal embodies the rare union of winemaking tradition and visionary spirit. A look back at a producer that has shaped history—while continuing to write it.

A founding pillar of modern Rioja

Founded in 1858 in Elciego, at the heart of Rioja Alavesa, Marqués de Riscal is far more than a winery—it is an institution. A pioneer on many fronts, it was the first to introduce Bordeaux winemaking techniques in Spain and also the first to produce a vintage-dated wine in the region. From the outset, the estate has stood out for its bold spirit of innovation paired with a deep respect for tradition. This subtle balance between heritage and forward-thinking is even reflected in its architecture, with the spectacular “City of Wine” designed by Frank Gehry—an audacious symbol of the meeting of wine, art and culture.

The refined expression of Rioja’s great classics

At Marqués de Riscal, every cuvée tells a story. From timeless classics like the Gran Reserva to the more ambitious Baron de Chirel, the wines are defined by elegance, balance and consistency. They showcase a faithful expression of the Tempranillo grape, often complemented by Graciano or Cabernet Sauvignon, with precise winemaking and carefully managed ageing. These are deep, structured yet approachable wines that reflect the house’s commitment and historic expertise.

A living legacy with a forward-looking spirit

Marqués de Riscal has never stopped reinventing itself. The first non-French estate to win a gold medal at the Bordeaux Universal Exhibition in 1895, it continues to cultivate excellence today through sustainable viticulture, meticulous plot selection, and an unwavering respect for time. More than just a winery, Riscal is a bridge between the prestige of the past and the ambitions of a vineyard firmly focused on the future.