Hacienda Monasterio Reserva 2011 – Hacienda Monasterio.
Hacienda Monasterio is one of Ribera del Duero’s iconic wineries, and under the leadership of winemaking icon Peter Sisseck has received praise from experts and wine lovers all over the world. We reviewed the ‘Cosecha’ produced by this winery earlier, and now it is time to step up our game a level with the 2011 vintage of the Riserva.
About the Winery
The Essence of Hacienda Monasterio: A Winery Steeped in Tradition.
Nestled in the heart of Spain’s renowned Ribera del Duero region, Hacienda Monasterio stands as a testament to the symbiosis between history and innovation. The winery’s journey began when renowned winemaker, Peter Sisseck, recognized the immense potential of this land and its terroir. His vision led to the establishment of Hacienda Monasterio, where traditional winemaking techniques harmonize seamlessly with modern expertise.
Rooted in a commitment to excellence, the winery’s 2011 Reserva is a testament to Hacienda Monasterio’s unwavering dedication. The estate’s ethos revolves around sustainable viticulture, meticulous grape selection, and a holistic approach to crafting wines that encapsulate the essence of the Ribera del Duero region. With every sip of the Reserva, one can sense the deep connection the winery maintains with its vineyards and the land they inhabit.
About the Region
The Ribera del Duero region, located in the heart of Spain, is a veritable treasure trove for wine enthusiasts. Its unique blend of altitude, climate, and soil types produces wines of exceptional character and complexity. Renowned for its mastery of the Tempranillo grape, locally known as Tinto Fino or Tinta del País, Ribera del Duero has earned its place among the world’s most celebrated wine regions.
The Reserva 2011 from Hacienda Monasterio reflects the essence of Ribera del Duero. This wine is an embodiment of the region’s characteristic deep and concentrated core, a testament to the sun-drenched days and cool nights that define its climate. Moreover, the Reserva’s aromatic intricacies, ranging from delicate florals to savory undertones, pay homage to the rich cultural heritage and tradition that infuse every aspect of Ribera del Duero winemaking.
In the glass, the Hacienda Monasterio Reserva 2011 encapsulates the very spirit of Ribera del Duero—a region that bridges the gap between heritage and innovation, between tradition and contemporary winemaking practices. It is through wines like this that the world is granted a glimpse into the soul of Ribera del Duero, a region where time-honored craftsmanship converges with the allure of the modern wine world.
About the Wine
Hacienda Monasterio’s Reserva’s are Tempranillo driven (80%), but always leave some room for Bordeaux influences (20% Cabernet Sauvignon). This vintage has aged in oak barriques for almost two years, and sees a production of just 17,169 bottles.
Upon opening the 2011 Reserva, its deep and concentrated core immediately draws attention. Yet, it’s the olfactory journey that truly captivates. The wine is alive with aromatic expression, revealing floral and violet notes that intermingle harmoniously with savory and meaty undertones. This aromatic symphony sets the tone for a tasting experience that is nothing short of captivating.
On the palate, the Reserva maintains its commitment to striking the perfect balance between opulence and finesse. The rich and dark character unfolds with layers of depth, while the defining feature remains the wine’s remarkable finesse. A finely tuned structure, accentuated by delicate acidity and velvety tannins, creates a sense of juiciness that flows seamlessly, guiding the journey across the palate.
In the glass, the Hacienda Monasterio Reserva 2011 culminates in a symphony of harmonious elements. Every facet of this wine is meticulously curated to contribute to an experience that is both complete and harmonious. The intricate weaving of diverse attributes speaks volumes about the dedication and expertise of the winemakers at Hacienda Monasterio.
Conclusion
The story behind the 2011 Reserva is a testament to a philosophy rooted in passion and a pursuit of perfection. As you explore the narrative of this vintage, you gain insight into the meticulous craftsmanship and unwavering commitment that underlie the exceptional quality of Hacienda Monasterio wines.
In closing, the Hacienda Monasterio Reserva 2011 unveils a world of elegance and depth within each sip. With this vintage, Hacienda Monasterio solidifies its position as a torchbearer of excellence in Ribera del Duero. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of fine wines, the 2011 Reserva promises an unforgettable sensory journey that leaves an indelible mark.
The surplus in cellar ageing gave us some nice insights in the overall potential of the Hacienda Monasterio Reserva line. It has to be said that this wine has been performing even better in recent years (’16-’17 and ’18 are outstanding), but this 2011 deserves a solid 94-point DWA score in our book.
This review is written by Niels Aarts. If you are interested in more Hacienda Monasterio wines we recommend our review of the Monasterio Cosecha 2019, which can be found here.
Price: ~€60
Taste date: February 2022
Score: 94/100 DWA Score
Website: Hacienda Monasterio