According to Peter Sisseck, the 2009 Reserva is “?the best we’ve ever made”. Tasted from a barrel sample, it is a blend of 75% Tempranillo with the balance Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot. The nose offers up cedar, spice box, lavender, incense, black cherry, and black currant. Layered and opulent on the palate, this is a very promising effort that will require 5-7 years of cellaring following release. It should have a 25 year lifespan. (Not yet released)Hacienda Monasterio is located between Pesquera and Valbuena del Duero. The estate is planted primarily to Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) but there is also some Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Oenologist/winemaker Peter Sisseck (of Dominio Pingus fame) has managed wine production at Hacienda Monasterio since 1990. Alcoholic fermentation is with native yeasts and malolactic fermentation occurs in French oak. The wine is aged in 40-50% new barrels, usually for 18 months, followed by 1 year in bottle prior to release.Importer: Eric Solomon Selections, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565