2017 Hacienda Monasterio, Reserva, Ribera del Duero, Spain

So often the sweet spot of this formidable range, the 2017 Reserva offers a far more immediate and accessible profile than recent vintages. The nose is an homage to all things chocolate and cherry, think black forest gateau, liqueur truffles and kirsch spiked cocoa. The oak, much less prominent in this lighter year, manifests as clove and allspice rather than a vanilla bomb. Really nicely put together on the palate where plush black fruit is ameliorated by liquorice, cinnamon and sour berries, brought together with a snap of espresso bean on the finish. Best of all, with a hefty decant, it will be ready to go on landing. 2022—2030.

Jahred Ehret, Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Nov 2021)