The 1998 vintage of Monte Real Gran Reserva was a seminal one for this superb bottling, as this was the first year where the wine was composed entirely of tempranillo and saw a bit of its elevage done in French casks, rather than all American oak barrels. The percentage of French wood used for the 1998 was only ten percent (and would climb a bit in coming years). The 1998 Monte Real is still not quite ready for primetime, but it is blossoming beautifully and is going to be a reference point vintage for this wine, as it offers up a complex aromatic constellation of red plums, cherries, raspberries, a gorgeous base of soil, cloves, fresh nutmeg, coconutty oak and just a whisper of cedar in the upper register. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied and quite refined in personality, with lovely mid-palate depth, fine soil signature, moderate tannins and a long, vibrant and very, very promising finish. Great juice that still deserves some time in the cellar, but is certainly quite approachable today.

Floral cherry, raspberry and aged wood aromas are elegant and mature. This Rioja is in regal condition, with smooth tannins and integrated acidity. Dried cherry, red plum, herbs and vanilla create a classic Rioja flavor profile. A supple, long finish puts this in perfect drinking shape, which doesn't mean it can't last another through 2025 or so. — Michael Schachner

Dark red with a pale rim. Pungent, spicy nose shows pure cherry, redcurrant and plum complemented by succulent herbs, vanillin oak spice and a hint of dried flowers. Supple, lush and deep, with sweet red fruit flavors framed by gentle, harmonious tannins. Fleshy and sweet on the back end, with impressive concentration and focus. This should age well.