Varietal: Tempranillo
Region: Rioja – Spain
Cost: $18
Winemaker’s Notes: A deep red in color with bright flavors of ripe berries and oak that will pair with duck, any red meats, and roasted vegetables.
My Review: A few weeks ago a pair of bottles showed up to my office. Whereas most samples I get have at least some tasting notes, if not a letter from the winemaker/vineyard owner/head of marketing letting me know something about the wine that might not be in the tasting notes, the two bottles of Montecillo (one the 2003 Reserva, another to be reviewed later), had nothing. In fact I took a moment to look over the shipping label to make sure that they were in fact intended for me.
Knowing what I know now, I would have at least kept the 2003 Reserva anyways.
The 2003 Montecillo Rioja Reserva was a lovely dark red in the glass, with subtle and smooth aromas of berry and spice on the nose. In the mouth, bright berries were quickly tempered with a smooth oak finish that lent body to the wine and made it a great pairing for what may have been the most perfect steak I have ever cooked. I’m just saying.
I think it’s fair to say that over my last few years of writing this site I’ve made no secret of my continuing fondness for Spanish wines, and the 2003 Montecillo Rioja Reserva is just another example of why I enjoy them so much. If you’re looking for something to pair with your next steak dinner, I definitely recommend this wine both because of it being a good pairing, and for it being a good price. If you can’t find the wine near you, follow this link and have it shipped directly to you.
If you are falling in love with Spain and Spanish wines you need to check out the wines of Jose Pastor. He is an importer of small scale, artisan wines. Unique, beautiful, unlike the normal mass produced Spanish juice you might find at the grocery store.
Thanks for the heads up, I will have to check it out. Also, love your site.