A rich, dark, brooding bottle of Tempranillo. The Ribera's examples are always fuller and darker than their counterparts from Rioja. Deep ruby, thick, almost black in the glass. Aromas of dried red and black fruits, roasted cocoa, moist clay, thyme and vanilla. Rich, full bodied with lots of extract and almost oxidative character. The tannins are there, but surprisingly soft and ripe, with mild acidity. The spicy sausage pizza I had stood up well but roast lamb would suit. Drink through 2019. Tasted Mar '13

Deep ruby in colour with a medium intense nose.

This will only please a discernable few.

Positives: Heavy into the tertiary tasting field with oak, mushroom, underbrush, espresso, thyme, with black olives, dark cherry, sour cherry & black currants. Full body with medium+ tannins, good acidity and a long length.

Negatives: A touch hot from the 14% alcohol.

Interesting Note: I like the Spanish bottle and label.

Drink now or over the next 5 years with food such as the Spanish dish Pringá.

Tasted: 20 May 13

Score: 8.5+/10, Value: 8.5/10 (Clearance price 8.5+/10) Total: 17+/20

Out of 5 stars, I rated this wine: 3.5