2014 Bodegas Riojanas 'Monte Real' Gran Reserva

Bodegas Riojanas is not only one of the oldest wineries in Spain’s Rioja region, but it’s also one of our all-time favorite producers. More than 130 years after their founding, they still adhere to producing traditional styles of Rioja with American oak aging, even as others shift to predominantly French oak. That means their wines show more flavors we typically associate with classic Rioja (and indeed, the Tempranillo grape), such as coconut and dill, on top of varietal cherry and leather.

The 2014 Monte Real is a soft medium to full bodied Tempranillo.  Aromas of plum and black cherry are accented by notes of terracotta, dusty earth, and mahogany.  It is smooth on the palate with flavors of prunes and dried figs leading into a finish of savory herbs and tobacco.

93 Points, James Suckling

92 Points, Tim Atkin

91 Points, Decanter

90 Points, Wine Spectator