If I Could Buy Only One – August 30th Vintages Release

We asked our writers, “If you could buy only one wine from the August 30th release, which one would it be and why?”

Palacios Remondo La Montesa 2021, Rioja, Spain
$26.95, Woodman Wines & Spirits
Megha Jandhyala – My “only one” this week is a Rioja I tasted last week that has persisted not just in my memory but on my palate like an inescapable phantasm. The 2021 Palacios Remondo La Montesa is graceful yet intensely evocative, reminding me of the sights and smells of Rioja Oriental – golden sunshine washing over perfectly ripe red fruit and warm breezes flowing through juniper and lavender bushes. I love how this wine undulates on my palate, so silky and tender, neither languid nor energetic, just gracefully in motion. I imagine garnacha plays a leading role in this blend (given its supple texture and immediately beguiling charm). Oak influence is employed with sleight of hand here – adding nuances of flavour and texture. The finish is charmingly full of character. While this can easily be cellared for 4-5 years, its allure inspires impatience; I would enjoy it now – why postpone joy?
Michael Godel – The grapes for 2021 Palacios Remondo La Montesa come from La Montesa vineyard at 550m in the village area of Valtomelloso, Valfrio and Valviejo. The topography is a long, gently sloping hillside in the foothills of Yerga Mountain. Mainly garnacha with 10 percent other endemic varieties growing in a true conglomerate of soil; carbonate sedimentation alluvials of various types such as volcanic rock, quartz and sandstone, filled with carbonate and clay-ferrous colluvial material, lime and sand. All adds up to a seriously variegated and complex Rioja that punches far above weight and price. Remarkable depth and length with nuance built from purity and precision. There are not enough superlatives to place upon a wine of this character while being so bloody affordable in today’s market.

There are other ‘Only One’ picks this week that are currently only visible to our premium members. This complete article will be free and visible to all members 30 days after publication. We invite you to subscribe today to unlock our top picks and other Premium benefits.

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Use these quick links for access to all of our August 30th Top Picks in the New Release. Non-premium members can select from all release dates 30 days prior.

John’s Top Picks – August 30th
Lawrason’s Take – August 30th
Megha’s Picks – August 30th
Michael’s Mix – August 30th
Sara’s Selections – August 30th