Overview: Established in 1870, Bodegas Montecillo is one of the oldest wineries in the D.O. Rioja with over 150 years of expertise. The name, Montecillo—or little mountain—speaks to the irregular topography of the Rioja vineyards. Surrounded by vines and close to the waters of the majestic Ebro river, the city of Fuenmayor is set amongst flat topped hills, and in the distance, the distinctive rocky mass of the Cantabrian Mountains.
Today, Montecillo remains a family winery in which tradition and passion remain the foundations to build a better future. Montecillo’s ancient underground ‘bodega’ houses hand stacked bottles that remain undisturbed until reaching optimal roundness, including vintages that date back to 1926, the year that the Rioja Designation of Origin was created. Their wines are crafted with a focus on Tempranillo and regional authenticity, and enjoy a long bottle life that exceeds regional averages.
Montecillo is also renowned for its female winemakers; led by oenologist Mercedes Garcia.
Tasting Notes: Bright garnet red, with a noticeable purple rim. Nose with a very clear presence of ripe red fruit and stone fruits, such as cherry. After a light aeration, traces of fruit jam appear, followed by sweet notes of coconut and patisserie. Silky on the palate, with sublime tannins from start to finish, and a richness of texture from the high glycerol content. Long and persistent, with clean and enjoyable fruit notes appearing again, followed by palate enveloping tannins.
Pairing: An essential element in the Mediterranean diet, it goes surprisingly well with tapas as well as expressing itself perfectly alongside more substantial meals, such as pulse-based stews, lean meats, charcuterie and homemade stews.
Points: 90, WE
Format / ABV: 750 ml / 13.5
In certain circumstances, a specific vintage may not be available. If this is the case, a comparable vintage of the same wine will be substituted for online orders. If shopping in store, please check the bottle for the appropriate vintage. If you have a question about a specific vintage that is in stock, please email wine@kegnbottle.com
