2015 Hacienda Monasterio, Reserva Especial, Ribera del Duero, Spain

The pinnacle of the Bodega, the 2015 Reserva Especial is a marvel, detailed and focussed yet concentrated and complex. The deep core invites you the heart of the forest with a medley of damson and morello cherry, enticing chocolate coated plums and whiffs of fern and cloves. Beguiling and seductive, the palate eases you into a sense of comfort with moreish flavours of spiced cherries, blackberries, and liquorice, with finely woven tannins and silky texture. An opulent expression in this vintage, yet there’s sufficient backbone and acidity to carry it forward into the next couple of decades, recommended to enjoy from 2025 – 2035+.
Chris Lamb, Private Account Manager

This wine isn’t produced every year, so is somewhat like a Gran Reserva equivalent. 2015 was a warm year in Ribera del Duero, offering rich ripe fruit and higher alcohol levels in both the Tempranillo (Tinto Fino) and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that make up this blend, and evidenced by the layers of ripe and dried fruit that fill the nose - raisins, figs, blackcurrants, liquorice, as well as a touch of Christmas spice. On the palate, the wine is generous yet refined, and retains enough fresh fruit to allow it to age a further five years in bottle, despite its undeniable ease of drinkability now. Drink 2024 – 2030+.
Georgina Haacke, Fine Wine Buyer