Dry and peppery aromas feature oak, mint and standard berry fruit. The palate is clacky and high in acidity, yielding raspberry, red plum and pie cherry flavors that are fresh but sheering. Oaky vanilla notes show up on the tight, juicy finish.——M.S.(10/1/2011)—— 86

Violet and blackberry aromas are an inviting first act, while the palate is lush and fairly deep, with thick blackberry and mildly brambly flavors. Maybe it doesn’t reach the penthouse, but as Ribera del Duero goes it more than makes the grade. 45,000 cases made.——M.S.(8/1/2009)—— 88

Big, extracted, concentrated fruit. Lots of tannin and fruit. ShouId go the distance.