A polished texture carries cherry, berry, herbal and spicy flavors in this lively red. Firm tannins and orange peel acidity lend a solid frame to the slightly rustic character. Drink now through 2019. 900 cases made, 350 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Ribera del Duero Select to Add

The 2005 Reserva dishes up smoke, pencil lead, Asian spices, violets, and blackberry. Structured on the palate in the style of the vintage, it also has plenty of spicy black fruit and several years of aging potential It will offer prime drinking from 2012 to 2020. Valtravieso’s owners aspire to produce great wine in Ribera del Duero and seem willing to go to any expense to do so. The project began in 2003 and just now seems to be getting into the swing of things. I was shown a vertical tasting of the flagship VT Tinta Fina, a wine made entirely from Tinta Fina (Tempranillo) and aged in 100% new oak. No known American importer

This powerful red is beginning to show maturity, with ripe plum, prune and coffee flavors blending into softening yet still-muscular tannins. It's generous, harmonious and built to last. Drink now through 2005.??–TM??Region: Spain / Ribera del Duero Select to Add