2019 Bodegas Montecastro y Llanahermosa Reserva Ribera del Duero

*** Pre-Arrival Item: ETA Jan 17th***

What happens when the masterminds behind Spain’s legendary Pingus craft another Ribera del Duero gem? You get Montecastro’s Reserva—a wine that delivers world-class quality without the sky-high price tag.

Peter Sisseck’s team, known for creating the iconic Pingus, brought their expertise to Montecastro in 2012, transforming it into one of Ribera’s rising stars. Decanter called it “one to watch,” and it’s no surprise.

Now, here’s the kicker: while Pingus has soared past $1,000 a bottle, Montecastro’s Reserva delivers the same world-class expertise at over 90% less—an unbeatable value for such exceptional craftsmanship.

“Ribera del Duero is like Rioja’s younger brother, but one that grew up to be bigger and brawnier than its sibling.” Wine Spectator.

Ribera del Duero is a paradise for wine lovers. Within this wine region, you’ll find some of the most unique, exceptional, south-after examples of Spanish wines.

The Montecastro Ribera del Duero is no ordinary wine. Born from the vision of passionate wine enthusiasts, this wine takes you on a sensory journey straight to the high-altitude vineyards of Castrillo de Duero, Valladolid, where the magic happens. Set between 860 and 930 metres above sea level, Montecastro’s vines thrive under the watchful eye of nature and the skilled hands of an expert team led by Carlos de la Fuente, a close collaborator of legendary winemaker Peter Sisseck.

Montecastro was founded in 2000, when a group of friends and entrepreneurs decided to create a project that would speak volumes in the wine world. The vineyard spans 27 hectares, mostly planted with Tinto Fino (Tempranillo), with just a sprinkle of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. In 2014, Hacienda Monasterio’s team, led by Carlos del Río González-Gordon, acquired Montecastro, bringing with them their expertise and commitment to excellence.

Here, modern winemaking meets tradition. The winery, designed by Roberto Valle, blends harmoniously into its surroundings, incorporating local materials like white stone and wood. All wines are crafted in thermoregulated concrete tanks, preserving the fruit’s essence and allowing for a smooth vinification process that is as innovative as it is precise.

This is a wine that can easily elevate your dining experience. Whether you're indulging in roasted lamb, grilled steaks, or a rich mushroom risotto, the Montecastro will bring balance and depth to every bite.

Aging: 17 months in French oak barrels.

95% Tempranillo and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep cherry red, intense and almost impenetrable, with a beautiful garnet rim Aromatically captivating. It opens with fine toasted notes, evolving into ripe dark fruit aromas like blackberries and blueberries, followed by layers of black plums, asphalt, dark chocolate, and a touch of balsamic undertones. Elegant yet full-bodied. A lively acidity balances the fruit intensity, offering a smooth and harmonious finish. Tannins are polished, leading to a long, persistent finale that leaves you wanting more.

~94 Points – Decanter World Wine Awards

The presence of Cabernet Sauvignon adds some welcome structure to the Tinto Fino base here, especially welcome in a hot vintage like 2019. Rich, ripe and well upholstered, this has attractive vanilla and patisserie oak, palate-caressing tannins and layers of fig, black olive and blackcurrant. 2025-2032. ~93 Tim Atkin, Master of Wine.

Dark wild berryish fruit, blackberry, cassis, with subtle roasted nuances and sweet spices. Medium fullness on the palate with subtle, textured fruit, noticeable fine tannins, ripe acidity. Good length. ~92 Falstaff

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