Viña Monty 1964 Reserva

Wine: Viña Monty 1964 Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Montecillo (Fuenmayor, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 100% Tempranillo.
ABV: [Not specified]

Winemaking
The wine spent between 6 and 12 months in large oak vats to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilize before racking. It was subsequently aged for 48 months in seasoned 225-liter American oak barriques. A minimum of 36 months of bottle aging was completed in the winery’s cellars prior to its commercial release in the mid-1970s.

 

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Translucent brownish-ruby of medium depth. It displays reddish and orange glints with a distinct tawny (tile-red) rim. Slight sediment is present at the base of the bottle.

 

Nose: Displays medium intensity with a prominent presence of vanilla, white spices, and creamy nuances of cocoa butter. It reveals notes of black licorice, toasted accents, and hearth smoke. Poised, discreet, and refined, the bouquet evolves towards reduced fruit, dried flowers, and a subtle mineral-chalky background.

 

Palate: Fresh and light on the palate with a fluid mouthfeel. It features very fine, fully integrated tannins. Almost imperceptible bitter nuances emerge alongside traditional ripe red fruit, supported by a balsamic thread and layers of noble wood. A red of classic spirit—impeccably crafted and preserved—that offers a high degree of drinkability. While it perhaps lacks greater depth, it is in a magnificent window for immediate enjoyment. A testament to the enduring vitality of the Navajas family era at Montecillo.

 

Personal Score: 90
Tasting Group Score: 90