The 2016 Alabaster was produced with grapes from ancient ungrafted vines, three plots that total 12 hectares that yield no more than 800 grams per hectare, but bear in mind, there might be 900 to 1,100 plants per hectare. The grapes were hand-destemmed and fermented in open vats after being foot trodden. The wine matured in new French barriques for 18 months. 2016 was a cold and wet year when the grapes ripened slowly and late. Yields were high and the plants took time to ripen all the grapes, so alcohols are a little higher, acidity lower and there are plenty of tannins. This is more backward and undeveloped than the 2017. One to wait. 4,000 bottles were filled in July 2019.

Rich and dense, this big red delivers currant, blackberry and kirsch flavors, with cocoa, anise and mineral notes. The muscular tannins are well-integrated, softened by balsamic acidity. Powerful, in the modern style. Best from 2021 through 2036. 333 cases made, 20 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Toro Select to Add