2005 Bodegas Vinicola Real ?200 Monges? Gran Reserva

Nothing beats an age-worthy wine that has had the proper time to develop. Tannins soften, fruit is awoken, and every moving part of a wine’s development clicks into place.  These are the most memorable experiences for a wine lover, critic and consumer alike.  First Growth Bordeauxs, Grand Cru Burgundy, and blue chip California Cabernets are all built to age and reward the patient.  The one region that none of us seem to give time to fully develop is Spain’s legendary Rioja region.  Today’s offer rivals the great First Growth Bordeaux, and has been quietly resting for the last 18 years.

The 2005 Bodegas Vinicola Real “200 Monges” Gran Reserva is one of the great reds, with time in the bottle, that’s not only drinking, but peaking at this price point.  It received 95 from Decanter and comes from the outstanding 2005 vintage. These wines were made for the cellar and have developed a cult following around the world. Their wines are all about balance, not high in alcohol, and this is their top bottling reserve wine.

The wine is a blend of 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 5% Garnacha and if you want a complete, “right place, right time” drinking experience, this is it. Only 18 cases available.

The Bodegas was started in 1992 by master distiller and winemaker, Miguel Angel Rodriguez.  The cellars are located in the village of Albelda de Iregua in Rioja Alta, home to the titan of Rioja, La Rioja Alta.  They have a total of 25 hectares of vineyards in 4 different zones of Rioja Alta.  Traditional, chemical-free viticulture is practiced, all grapes are harvested by hand and sorted again at the winery.