Monte Real Gran Reserva 2009

Alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks for 7 days at controlled temperature (26–27 °C), with pump-overs, macro and micro-oxygenation and extended macerations of up to 30 days. Natural malolactic fermentation. From March 2010, aged for 3.5 years in American oak barrels (50% new, 50% averaging 3–4 years), racked every 6 months. Bottled in October 2013 without stabilisation, then slowly bottle-aged in the winery's natural "cellar cemetery."

From the highest-altitude plots (500 m) of the "El Monte" vineyard in Cenicero, north-facing, on clay-limestone soils with abundant rounded stones, from vines over 50 years old. The 2009 vintage rated "Very Good," with Excellent potential on this particular terroir benefited from mid-September rains that slowed ripening and delivered an extraordinary balance of fruit aromatics and skin maturity for Cenicero's Tempranillo.

Deep garnet red with brick-red highlights. The aromatic palette is complex and mature: red and black raspberries, a mineral base rooted in the terroir, wrapped in cinnamon, clove and cedar the hallmark of a long, carefully tended barrel ageing. The palate is pure, full-bodied and velvety, with ripe tannins, an enchanting terroir signature and a long, persistent finish. Oak, vanilla and chocolate rest harmoniously over flavours of ripe berries and black plum. At 15 years of age, a wine that remains genuinely fresh and fruit-forward with enormous ageing potential still ahead.

Serve between 17–19 °C. Decanting for at least 1 hour is essential to unlock the wine's full aromatic complexity. Presented in an individual wooden gift box. Ageing potential of 20 years from purchase. Outstanding with roasted meats, lamb, game and bold aged cheeses.