News
A Significant Global Recognition for Rioja
In its newly released ranking of the Top 50 Wineries in the World, Forbes, in partnership with wine experts from Virgin Wines, has placed Bodega Marqués de Murrieta at #3 worldwide—one of the highest positions for any Spanish winery.
This announcement further solidifies Rioja’s leadership in the premium, fine-wine category and underscores the region’s strategic importance to global buyers, distributors, and on-premise programs.
Heritage, Precision, and Global Influence
Founded in 1852, Marqués de Murrieta is widely regarded as the origin point of modern Rioja winemaking. Its founder, Luciano de Murrieta, produced the region’s first fine-quality wine and became the first to export Rioja internationally—setting the stage for the global reputation Rioja enjoys today.
Key attributes that continue to drive its industry leadership include:
• Finca Ygay: A Benchmark Estate
A 300-hectare property in Rioja Alta known for consistent quality, meticulous vineyard management, and an unparalleled history of vintage documentation.
• Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva
A flagship wine that has twice earned global “Best Wine in the World” distinctions and serves as a category-defining reference point for Gran Reserva production.
• Integration of Tradition and Modernization
Recent investments include a restored 19th-century château, updated production facilities, and a visitor experience that seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary enotourism expectations.
• Elevated Global Demand
Trade partners continue to note strong consumer recognition, high scores from international critics, and stable supply—making Marqués de Murrieta a crucial brand for Rioja portfolios in both on- and off-premise channels.
What This Means for the Trade
Marqués de Murrieta’s inclusion in the Top 3 signals key opportunities for the U.S. trade:
- Increased consumer interest in heritage-driven, story-rich estates
- Strong alignment with premium price points and curated by-the-glass programs
- Marketing leverage for Rioja placements during the region’s centennial year
- High-value additions to reserve, Gran Reserva, and Spanish fine-wine sets
For retailers, importers, distributors, and sommeliers, this recognition reinforces Rioja as a region where quality, reliability, and storytelling consistently convert on the shelf and on the list.
Continue Showcasing Rioja’s Finest
As Rioja celebrates its centennial as a Denominación de Origen, global recognition like this further elevates the region’s position among the world’s top fine-wine producers.
Explore Rioja’s full classification system, producer landscape, and trade-ready assets—and continue building demand for Spain’s most influential wine region.
