Wine: Montecillo Selección Especial 1991 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Montecillo (Fuenmayor, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 100% Tempranillo
ABV: 13%
Winery: Bodegas Montecillo (Fuenmayor, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 100% Tempranillo
ABV: 13%
Winemaking:
Manual harvest during the second week of October, followed by a second table selection at the winery. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 20°C for 32 days, with a maceration period of 25 to 35 days. The wine was aged for 40 months in new French oak barrels (225L) crafted in-house by the winery's own cooperage. Subjected to periodic manual rackings. Bottled in mid-1996, it underwent a minimum of 36 months of bottle aging in the winery’s cellars. This specific lot was released in 2008 as part of a special library release of historic vintages.
Manual harvest during the second week of October, followed by a second table selection at the winery. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 20°C for 32 days, with a maceration period of 25 to 35 days. The wine was aged for 40 months in new French oak barrels (225L) crafted in-house by the winery's own cooperage. Subjected to periodic manual rackings. Bottled in mid-1996, it underwent a minimum of 36 months of bottle aging in the winery’s cellars. This specific lot was released in 2008 as part of a special library release of historic vintages.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Ruby-red with medium depth; very clear, translucent, and limpid with no
signs of sediment. Brilliant and refulgent with vibrant amber
reflections. Minimal, saffron-toned rim. Exceptional quality 54mm "Flor" cork, entirely elastic and barely
stained, suggesting it may have been recorked a few years prior to its
2008 release.
Nose:
Defined, immediate, and open. Elegant, floral, and perfumed, it
showcases great varietal expression (liquorice, plums, violet candies)
without overshadowing the high-end, lightly toasted oak in the
background. It builds in intensity, revealing roasted notes, soft
balsamics, earthy undertones, vanilla, and blond tobacco. Very
appealing.
Palate:
Juicy and polished on the palate. Fresh, approachable, and savory; it
is extremely smooth and fully integrated, supported by intense acidity
and solid structure. Its initial frankness does not hinder its continued
growth, gradually revealing creamy notes as it breathes.
Commentary:
Another excellent achievement from Montecillo that rivals the 1994 Selección Especial. Everything is in its place, displaying remarkable integrity and youthfulness, which suggests significant room for further improvement if cellared in good conditions. While it lacks the exuberance of other vintages, its promise and potential are undeniable. A wine to revisit in a few years.
Another excellent achievement from Montecillo that rivals the 1994 Selección Especial. Everything is in its place, displaying remarkable integrity and youthfulness, which suggests significant room for further improvement if cellared in good conditions. While it lacks the exuberance of other vintages, its promise and potential are undeniable. A wine to revisit in a few years.
Personal Score: 91
Tasting Group Average: 90
Tasting Group Average: 90
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