TN: 1999 Hacienda Monasterio Ribera del Duero

I was rustling around in the cellar looking for a bottle for dinner and this came to hand. I'm glad it did!

Mid red, a nose of ripe berry and nutmeg, and in the mouth obvious acidity but plenty of body and flavour intensity and a lingering finish. Delicious - wonder why I passed it by for so many years.

Have three other vintages - intend to savour them later this year! OI also have other Riberas - Pesquera from the early 90s on, and they have shown great ageability as well as Alonso del Yerro and Aalto. Time to get out the corkscrew.

[David M. Bueker]

I was thinking Spanish the other day, and realized that all mine are buried deeply - will have to wait for fall.

[Jenise]

Did a double take when I saw your post; I opened a 2010 last night. Decanted about two hours in advance, and tasty enough but no tertiary magic like your bottle. Should have left it alone.

Do you have any older ones, Jenise? I have 99, 03, 04 ad one bottle of 01 Reserva. Could be a tasting!

And yes, David, I have had excellent luck with Spanish wines older than I think will be possible yet the still come through for you.

[Jenise]

No, Bill, that was my only bottle, last of three I think. All opened too soon.