Elegant and austere, this polished red shows flashes of black cherry, mineral, game and espresso, solidly structured yet well-balanced. Deftly made but needs time to express itself. Best after 2008. 200 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Ribera del Duero Select to Add

Expect no shortage of power and pounding tannins from this modern-styled, heavily extracted Tempranillo. The nose is dark, sweet and jammy, but all pleasantries cease there; the palate is tannic as nails, with baked plum and other roasted dark-fruit flavors. To this taster, it’s a hard, tough wine. Others may find it more appealing.——M.S.(10/1/2008)—— 85