Understatedly stunning, with wintergreen and licorice gumdrop notes poking through a fruit-infested bouquet. The palate is genuine and pure, with cassis and plum, spice, and loads of leather. The finish is firm, with a warm earthiness that leaves you believing that this wine is right on form.
— M.S.
(3/1/2004)
With aromas of warm earth, cedar, tobacco and meaty black fruit, this covers the basics of Ribera. It feels plump, round and maybe a bit flat, with rich, ripe blackberry, prune and spice flavors. It’s harmonious and full-bodied on the finish.
— M.S.
(7/1/2012)
Starts out rough and almost rubbery, but patience will be rewarded with tight cherry, cassis and cola flavors jumping on a bed of cheek-starching tannins. Airing and food are key to enjoying this serious Tempranillo. Drink now–2011.
— M.S.
(4/1/2007)
A big set of roasted aromas includes hints of smoke, mineral, bacon and black fruit. The palate is balanced and lifted by proper acidity, so the black-fruit flavors do not come across as heavy or cooked. Savory stuff, with vanilla and herb accents on a firm, long finish. Good structure; well-made wine.
— M.S.
(10/1/2009)
Opens with floral, blueberry aromas, mineral notes and a spot of jammy candy. The palate is alert and well balanced, with grab and juicy flavors of raspberry and plum offset by a wave of buttery oak. Textured, full and satisfying on the finish. Very nice wine.
— M.S.
(2/1/2010)
Aromas of citrus peel, candy and sweet fruit are challenging at first and better as they evolve. There’s a pine or fir quality to the wine, which makes it herbal and almost juniper-like. Surrounding that there’s cherry, berry and scratchy tannins. Rounds out into a deep, big wine that makes its point and tastes very much like Ribera del Duero.
— M.S.
(4/1/2009)
Sweet and ripe, and a touch aggressive. That said, the spicy pepper and blackberry palate is satisfying. The finish offers vanilla, black pepper and wood resin. Very plump and fruity, with chocolaty edges. Definitely a good Ribera red, even if it comes in below the cream of the region.
— M.S.
(3/1/2004)
Dark, smoky and loaded with baked berry aromas indicative of a warm vintage. The flavors are sturdy yet superficial, with toast, vanilla and coconut shadings. Shows good chocolate and some depth, but not much length on the finish. Drink now.
— M.S.
(6/1/2007)