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SKU 870012
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Ribera benefited from regular seasons and a very cold winter in 2018, according to Xavier Ausàs, which is why he’s such a fan of the vintage. This is the third release of this excellent, pan-Rioja blend from Vega Sicilia’s long-term former winemaker and is his best yet. Combining Tinto Fino grapes from five villages between 780 and 900m, it’s a subtle, refined red that carries its 15% alcohol with ease, showing chalky minerality, scented 35% new wood, tobacco and red berry fruit flavours and a long, stylish, lightly balsamic finish. Drinking Window 2022 – 2028.
There are plenty of notable native Spanish grapes which have made a big impression on the wine world at large, but none are as renowned or as widely loved as the Tempranillo varietal. This black skinned grape has been used for wine making for centuries, with several ancient civilizations noticing the fact that it is highly versatile and holds some delicious flavors and aromas, perfect for those looking for a powerful yet elegant grape for their wines. Tempranillo often causes winemakers some trouble, however, as it is highly susceptible to many diseases. Despite this, plenty continue to persevere with this varietal, as it is perfect for producing delicious and complex single variety and blended wines, packed full of classic Spanish flavors and plenty of aromatic and intense surprises.
Country
Spain
Ever since the Phoenicians and Romans brought their knowledge of vine cultivation to Spanish soils, the country's culture has grown alongside wine production, with wine being a vital part of Spanish identity and Spanish traditions. Each region of Spain has a wine quite distinct from the others, and it is produced by smallholders and families as much as it is by large companies and established wineries. From the relatively mild and lush regions of La Rioja to the arid plateaus that surround Madrid, grapes are grown in abundance for the now booming Spanish wine industry, and new laws and regulations have recently been put in place to keep the country's standards high. By combining traditional practices with modern technology, Spanish wineries are continuing to produce distinctive wines of great character, flavor and aroma, with the focus shifting in recent decades to quality over quantity.
Region
Castilla Y Leon
The ancient, arid and beautiful region of Castilla y Leon is the largest in Spain, and amongst the largest single 'regions' in any country of Europe. It has been famed throughout the centuries for its architecture, its people, its art and literature, and not least for its characterful and flavorful wines, which capture the beating heart and passion of Spain and Spanish culture. Castilla y Leon is essentially a vast plateau, and is extremely dry, with a poor soil structure which one might think would make viticulture difficult, if not impossible. However, Castilla y Leon has plenty of native grape varietals which are able to stretch their roots deep underground, to tap into the moisture and minerals which can be found there.
Appellation
Ribera Del Duero
DC96pts
Decanter
Ribera benefited from regular seasons and a very cold winter in 2018, according to Xavier Ausàs, which is why he's such a fan of the vintage. This is the third release of this excellent, pan-Rioja blend from Vega Sicilia's long-term former winemaker and is his best yet. Combining Tinto Fino grapes from five villages between 780 and 900m, it's a subtle, refined red that carries its 15% alcohol with ease, showing chalky minerality, scented 35% new wood, tobacco and red berry fruit flavours and a long, stylish, lightly balsamic finish. Drinking Window 2022 - 2028.
WA95pts
Wine Advocate
He only produces one wine, of which I tasted the 2018 Interpretación, a classical, ripe and generously oaked Tinto Fino for the long haul. It was produced the same way as in previous years—fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in 225- and 500-liter oak barrels, 35% of them new, for 16 months. It's a combination of power and elegance, ripeness and balance, still very young with marked oak and plenty of tannins. It's full-bodied with deep, ripe flavors and a dry finish. 34,563 bottles, 495 magnums and some larger formats were filled in June 2020.
JS94pts
James Suckling
Aromas of graphite, dark spices, lots of fresh blackberries and violets. It is a combination of freshness and intensity, with signature Ribera del Duero structure and a bit of finesse. Long and fine-etched. Delicious now, but will hold well in the next decade. A formidable wine despite the slightly warming alcohol. Drink or hold.
Winery Notes
Javier AUSAS was the wine maker and technical Director of VEGA SICILIA for 23 years (1992 – 2015). He then started his own boutique wine company. He purchased a good percentage of his Tempranillo grape from the very well-known ALION vineyard, his friend for over 30 years.
