Viniou Reviews
Montecillo Gran Reserva 2017 is a remarkable red wine from Rioja, Spain, a region globally renowned for its age-worthy Tempranillo-based blends. This cuvée is crafted predominantly from Tempranillo, possibly complemented by Graciano or Mazuelo (Carignan), following the traditional Rioja Gran Reserva ageing protocol: extended maturation in oak barrels—often for at least two years—followed by further ageing in bottle before release. The 2017 vintage in Rioja offered moderate yields but promoted excellent fruit concentration, resulting in a wine that gracefully balances structure and elegance. The nose tends to open with layers of ripe red fruits, underlined by notes of tobacco, leather, sweet spice, and subtle hints of vanilla and cedar from oak integration. On the palate, the tannins are velvety, the acidity lively, sustaining complexity with a lingering and harmonious finish.
Rioja, the heartland of Spain’s fine red wine, is situated in the north, flanked by the Sierra de Cantabria and Sierra de la Demanda mountains. The region enjoys a mix of Atlantic and Mediterranean climates, with hot summers, temperate springs, and crisp autumns, favouring gradual grape maturation. Its soils, ranging from clay-limestone to ferrous clay and alluvial, contribute nuanced minerality and freshness to the wines. The area boasts a rich winemaking heritage dating back to Roman times and solidified in the 19th century when French techniques, including barrel ageing, were adopted, forging Rioja’s unique identity as a benchmark for Spanish reds.
For food pairings, Montecillo Gran Reserva 2017 excels alongside robust dishes. Classic options from the Rioja region include slow-braised lamb shoulder, chuletillas al sarmiento (grilled lamb cutlets), or patatas a la riojana, a hearty chorizo and potato stew. The wine’s savoury depth also matches mature cheeses—such as Manchego—and oven-roasted game birds, while its refined tannins complement richly sauced beef or duck confit.
For optimal enjoyment, decant this Gran Reserva at least an hour beforehand to allow the complex aromatics to unfold. Serve at 16-18°C. This temperature preserves its freshness while fully expressing its bouquet and integrated structure, making each sip both nuanced and satisfying.
