92+
Luis Gutierrez - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
"2012 was one of the driest and warmest years on record (the third driest August since 1961, the fourth warmest since 1961). The 2012 Rioja Crianza la Montesa is a blend of 80% Garnacha, 15% Tempranillo and 5% Mazuelo (Cariñena) from grapes grown in the La Montesa estate in Alfaro, Rioja Baja where the red Garnacha reigns over Tempranillo. The wine is getting lighter and more ethereal, but this ripe 2012 has a heady nose of cherries in liqueur but also black and sour cherries, unnoticeable oak plus just a pinch of dark spices. The palate is soft and silky, with ultra-fine tannins, great acidity and balance. Again, a great showing for La Montesa. This wine is a true bargain; typical Rioja at unbeatable prices. They are transforming their trellised vines to head-pruned. Hard to beat as a great value. " (4/2015)
91 Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Brilliant ruby-red. Lively scents of cherry-vanilla, rose pastille, licorice and incense are complemented by deeper-pitched notes of woodsmoke and pipe tobacco. Sappy, sharply focused blackcurrant and bitter cherry flavors are complicated by smoky mineral and black pepper elements, with zesty acidity adding lift. Turns deeper with air, picking up a dark chocolate note that lingers on the smooth, subtly tannic, persistent finish.
90 Wine Spectator
Plump and silky, this round red delivers bright cherry, berry, licorice and orange peel flavors, with well-integrated tannins and a sweet, spicy finish. Expressive. Drink now through 2020.
"Named after a hillside vineyard located on the northeastern slope of the Yerga mountain in eastern Rioja, La Montesa is a blend of the indigenous grape varieties that grow on the Palacios Remondo estate. Described by winemaker Alvaro Palacios as being 'clear ruby-to-cherry-red in color, with flecks of gold and silver', it is a cheerful wine, with an indescribable vitality. Full of Mediterranean orchard fruit aromas including nectarines, pomegranates and oranges, the palate 'contains vibrant and rich flavors of stone fruits, discrete spice and a vibrant chalky minerality'. Perfect when enjoyed by-the-glass on its own, La Montesa's multi-faceted flavor profile will pair well with any kind of cuisine." - Importer
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