Bodegas Montecillo is one of Rioja’s oldest and most respected estates. Founded in 1870 in Fuenmayor, Rioja Alta, it has maintained a century and a half of tradition. Montecillo’s Gran Reserva wines are made only in exceptional years with extended barrel ageing and long cellaring. They are built for decades of evolution rather than early drinking.

The 1970 Gran Reserva “Viña Monty” was crafted from Tempranillo with small portions of Mazuelo and Graciano. The vintage produced balanced fruit with firm tannins and natural acidity. The wine underwent long oak ageing followed by extended bottle maturation. Today, it is a fully resolved example of classic Rioja.

This bottle shows brick‑tinged garnet color. Aromas of leather, tobacco, cedar, dried cherry, forest floor, and truffle dominate. The palate is silky with medium body, fully integrated tannins, and lingering flavors of plum skin, licorice, and subtle balsamic notes. This is a contemplative wine made to savor slowly.

Why You’ll Love It

• Historic Rioja heritage: Over 150 years of winemaking tradition in Rioja Alta.

• Decades of evolution: Leather, tobacco, cedar, truffle, and dried fruit complexity.

• Rarity and impact: Bottles from 1970 are scarce, offering an extraordinary mature Rioja experience.

How To Serve

• Stand upright 48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle.

• Decant carefully just before pouring.

• Serve at 60–63°F in large Bordeaux stems.

• Pair with roasted lamb, aged Manchego, game meats, or braised short ribs.

We highly recommend opening these aged rarities with an Ah-So (two-prong opener) or Durand corkscrew.