The 2005 Montecillo Gran Reserva has captivating bouquet full of dried cherry, wood, light vanilla, allspice and subtle dried mushroom notes. It is a medium bodied, extra-dry, integrated to aged wine; with good acidity, refined tannins (decant for 1+ hours – more than 2 hr is even better) and a long, clean, vanilla/woody finish. Drink with food or sip on its own; drink now – 2020? My impression: BEAUTIFUL, 91 pts – a classic, well made Rioja that is slightly too $$, but recommended for its quality. Tasted Nov/13.

See my wine recommendations readily available at the LCBO here:

http://grapeselections.com/grapeselections

or here @

http://www.winealign.com/wino/dantrcka/recommended-wines-you-can-still-buy

Lovely nose, but the taste falls short.

Positives: This wine features sandalwood, dried cherries, portobello mushrooms, sage & oregano. Medium light body with low tannins, average acidity and length.

Negatives: Taste is on the watery side..

Drink now on its own or pair it with grilled lamb chops.

Tasted: 29 Nov 2013

Score: 8.5/10, Value: 8.5/10 Total: 17/20

Out of 5 stars, I rated this wine: 3.5