Bodegas Muriel

Bodegas Muriel Summary:

• Region: Rioja Alavesa, Spain
• Founded: 1926 by José Murua; Bodegas Muriel officially established in 1982 by Julián Murua Entrena
• Family: Multi-generation winery now led by Julián and his son Javier Murua
• Specialty: Elegant, complex, and age-worthy Reserva-designated Rioja wines
• Name Origin: Combination of Murua (family name) + Rioja + Elciego (village)
• Terroir: Clay-chalk soils; terraced vineyards; Mediterranean climate with continental and maritime influences
• Signature Strength: Blend of traditional Rioja winemaking with modern techniques and deep expertise in the art of blending

Brand Story:

Founded in 1926, Bodegas Murua was established by José Murua in Rioja Alavesa, one of the three sub-regions of Rioja and widely recognized for its exceptional terroir. Following in his father’s footsteps, Julián Murua Entrena began his own winemaking journey specializing in the art of blending, eventually establishing Bodegas Muriel in 1982. Today, the winery is operated by Julián and his son Javier, who remain committed to merging the long-held winemaking traditions of Rioja with modern techniques to enhance precision and quality.

Bodegas Muriel is particularly known for producing elegant, complex, and age-worthy Reserva-designated Riojas. The name “Muriel” reflects the heart of the estate—a blend of the family name Murua, the region of Rioja, and the village of Elciego, where the winery resides.

Terroir & Vineyards

The winery is located in Elciego, an area famed for some of Rioja Alavesa’s most prized terroir. The vineyards feature clay-chalk soils, allowing vine roots to penetrate deeply for optimal mineral uptake and structural complexity. Many parcels are planted on terraced slopes, providing natural drainage and preventing erosion.

The region’s Mediterranean climate, influenced by both continental and maritime conditions, creates ideal ripening environments that yield aromatic, balanced, and elegant wines with excellent aging potential.