2018 Rioja Crianza la Montesa
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
95% Garnacha, 5% others. La Montesa comes from three plots – Valtomelloso, Valfrío and Valviejo – planted in silty, alluvial soil at 550 m elevation. Organic viticulture. 2018 was considered a great vintage: lots of rain after a dry 2017, snow at the end of December, and the most humid spring of the 21st century. The soil stayed very cool, and the wines retained perfume and freshness. Picked from 28 September to 20 October. 100% destemmed. Spontaneous fermentation in stainless-steel vats. Aged in a mix of new and used barrels (80% French and 20% American) for 12 months. Fined but not filtered. Delicate floral aromas with burgundian flair. Pure red-cherry and cranberry flavours and plenty of freshness. This stands out for its delicacy; even the tannins feel very elegant. It lasts long, developing a gentle, spicy note. (FG)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Alistair Cooper MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
A confident Rioja with great purity and elegance. Quite mineral and racy, with red berries and fine herbs that extend to a very refined and silky palate. From organically grown grapes. Unfiltered. Effortless drinkability here. Enjoy now.
Very rich-yet-light Rioja beautifully judged. Tobacco-leaf flavours. Dry, long finish. Great food wine? (JR)
A majestic nose, pure and refined, waxy cherry and lively red fruits. Subtle spice, redcurrant and liquorice. Good intensity of red fruits and a layered finish. (AC)