Spanish wine makers battled frost, drought and ill-timed rain this vintage, yet managed to produce some spectacular red wines. In Rioja late April frosts were followed by even flowering during May and June, and then a very wet July.
However, August was gloriously hot and the good weather continued throughout much of September and most of October. The grapes ripened perfectly, resulting in full-bodied, deeply coloured wines with good levels of concentration and very good structure.
In Ribera del Duero spring was extremely wet and in then in April the region was hit by severe frosts. However from May onward the weather was perfect, with a long, hot summer, culminating in a warm and predominantly dry autumn. The wines are rich, complex and very well balanced.
An impressive depth of colour bodes well; confirmed by cerebral and satisfying aromas, forest floor, thyme, spice and black fruit. The palate is equally impressive, with tannins perfectly integrated, dense and dark fruit and secondary more savoury notes finely entwined. Drinking to perfection now. (Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)