96
points
Val Sotillo 1994 Gran Reserva Red (Ribera del Duero)
-
$80
Incredible depth and purity of fruit characterize this bottling. A huge bouquet of black fruits, truffles, cinnamon, licorice and more pulls you right in, and the palate does not disappoint with its cherry, tobacco and cumin notes, and a lovely balance of sweet and sour elements. Full—even massive—but quite refined at the same time, with great grip, and solid…
— M.M.
(8/1/2000)
93
points
Val Sotillo 2004 Reserva Tempranillo (Ribera del Duero)
-
$60
Wonderful on the bouquet, where earthy notes blend perfectly with alert, bright fruit aromas. This is a sizable, full-bodied wine with leather, lively fruit character and a dose of rich chocolate. It’s in excellent shape and shows impressive balance and depth. Delicious to the core, with heft and noticeable oak that should lessen if given more time. Drink now–2019.
— M.S.
(10/1/2010)
93
points
Val Sotillo 1996 Reserva Tempranillo (Ribera del Duero)
-
$55
Deep and very complex, with great intensity of cherry fruit and earth-leather accents, this is (as we say) "very serious juice." The mouthfeel is full and rich, with good acidity and firm but fine tannins. The engaging aromas carry through on the palate, where interesting mineral, even faintly saline, nuances appear. (Available fall 2000.)
— M.M.
(8/1/2000)
92
points
Val Sotillo 2001 Reserva Tempranillo (Ribera del Duero)
-
$78
Pure, soft, balanced and classy, with raisin, earth and fine leather on the nose. The palate is warm and smooth, with lasting acidity that creates juicy cherry, plum and fresh tomato flavors. On the finish, chocolate and caramel enter the picture. Complex and still vital. Drink now through 2013.
— M.S.
(4/1/2010)
90
points
Val Sotillo 2005 Crianza Tempranillo (Ribera del Duero)
-
$35
Full, earthy and ripe, but also delivering alot of clean fruit, size and balance. The palate has moderate to full tannic grip, which props up berry, vanilla, wood and mild herbal flavors. Long, solid and a little oaky late, with proper purity and a commitment to the near future. Drink now through 2011.
— M.S.
(2/1/2010)