2004 Monasterio Reserva

The 2004 Reserva delivers a beautifully complex bouquet followed by lush, succulent fruit on the palate. Velvety-textured with well-concealed tannin, it can be approached now but will be at its best from 2014 to 2029. Hacienda Monasterio is located between Pesquera and Valbuena del Duero. The estate is planted primarily to Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) but there is also some Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Oenologist/winemaker Peter Sisseck (of Dominio Pingus fame) has managed wine production at Hacienda Monasterio since 1990. Alcoholic fermentation is with native yeasts and malolactic fermentation occurs in French oak. The wine is aged in 40-50% new barrels, usually for 18 months, followed by 1 year in bottle prior to release. Importer: Eric Solomon Selections, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565