The 2011 Valdegines is produced with 100% Tempranillo from a single east-facing, 7-hectare vineyard planted in 1979 in Laguardia at 600 meters altitude which fermented in open wooden vats for 10-12 days. It’s very creamy and open, with notes of licorice and very showy floral aromas. The palate has great intensity, good acidity and balance, and it just needs a little bit of time to polish its grainy tannins. Drink 2015-2024. I tasted Artadi’s 2010s and 2011s, as they seem to be selling the new vintages very fast and they even sell part of their wines en primeur. 2010, 2011 and 2012 have been very dry years. I didn’t have the chance to taste any 2012s, but I look forward to doing so the next time around. 2011 seems to be more fruit forward, more primary, without the complexity and depth of the 2010s, which were very elegant and is a superb vintage for Artadi. There are differences in texture between the two years, 2010 being more gentle, rounder and silkier and 2011 a bit wilder with a touch of rusticity. When it comes to production methods, only Tempranillo is used (except for the white which is produced exclusively with Viura), they destemmed all the grapes, the press wine never makes it into the final blends, and they only use French oak barrels. Imported by Folio Fine Wine Partners, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 256-2700; www.foliowine.com

This red marries a solid structure with focus and balance. The black cherry and blackberry flavors are ripe and juicy, but mineral, sanguine and espresso notes add a savory balance. Polished, offering plenty of tannins for grip. Drink now through 2021. 30 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add