2009 Hacienda Monasterio Reserva
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Tasting notes
(the same blend as for the 2010 version): Inky ruby. Deeper and darker in character than its younger sibling, displaying scents and flavors of blackcurrant, dried cherry and licorice, with a spicy element adding vivacity. Opens nicely with air, picking up a smoky nuance and a touch of candied rose. Finishes sappy and very long, with velvety tannins building slowly and framing the wine's lush fruit.
Critic scores
Josh Raynolds
Jay S Miller, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
According to Peter Sisseck, the 2009 Reserva is “?the best we’ve ever made”. Tasted from a barrel sample, it is a blend of 75% Tempranillo with the balance Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot. The nose offers up cedar, spice box, lavender, incense, black cherry, and black currant. Layered and opulent on the palate, this is a very promising effort that will require 5-7 years of cellaring following release. It should have a 25 year lifespan. (Not yet released) Hacienda Monasterio is located between Pesquera and Valbuena del Duero. The estate is planted primarily to Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) but there is also some Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Oenologist/winemaker Peter Sisseck (of Dominio Pingus fame) has managed wine production at Hacienda Monasterio since 1990. Alcoholic fermentation is with native yeasts and malolactic fermentation occurs in French oak. The wine is aged in 40-50% new barrels, usually for 18 months, followed by 1 year in bottle prior to release. Importer: Eric Solomon Selections, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565