Rioja La Montesa Crianza

Romazini: 5/5 Stars

Modern Rioja made by the well known enologist Alvara Palacios. An impressively solid value.

Robert Parker: 87/100 Points

The 2007 La Montesa is composed of 60% Garnacha, 35% Tempranillo, and 5% Mazuelo aged for 12 months in a mix of new and used French and American oak. Aromas of cedar, tobacco, white pepper, spice box, and black cherry lead to a medium-bodied wine with a silky texture, savory flavors, and excellent balance. It will evolve for 1-2 years but can be enjoyed now and over the next 6-8 years.

Stephen Tanzer: 88/100 Points

Vintage 2006: Deep red. Redcurrant and cherry on the nose, with complicating notes of tobacco and dried flowers. A sweet, gently spicy midweight offering fresh cherry and bitter chocolate flavors and finishing with good youthful grip and smoky persistence. I'd let this sit for another year.