Bodegas Riojanas Monte Real Rioja Reserva | 2019

A good example of why you should never judge a wine by its label or production size, this Monte Real Reserva 2019 is anything but ugly or boutique. Monte Real is part of the larger group, Bodegas Riojanas, which expands ten appellations, including four wineries and twenty brands. Monte Real is based in Cenicero, the original home of Riojanas, established in 1890. Mostly Tempranillo and aged in a combination of American and French oak, the nose is a wonderful mix of fruity and savory with crushed cherries, the darkest of strawberries, leather, and coconut spice. More medium body, than full, it's hard to imagine what this wouldn't pair with: fish stews, grilled lobsters, smash patties, and chicken parmigiana galore. ~Allegra A