May 16, 2012
Drink Ribera

Ribera del Duero showcases the powerfully elegant side of Tempranillo, with structured, round tannins, rich earth tones and sensationally dense fruit. Now 270 wineries strong, the Ribera del Duero DO was created in 1982. Ribera's winemakers and producers are dedicated to quality and value.

Here is a quick assessment of a few Tempranillos by a jury of 12 of Vegas' best palates. (Article found in The Tasting Panel May 2012)

Easy on the Oak - Bodegas Bardo de Piedra 2010 Tempranillo (2009 In Stock)
Working in a prestigious singular district in the western part of Ribera del Duero, Barco de Piedra winemaker Alvaro Trigueros understands that the region already has plenty of tannins, so a minimal of oak aging is what he delivered in making this wine. A great value, this youthful soul comes from limestone and sandy clay soils and moderate temperatures.
"Pomegranates in the distance echo a bright, young red-fruit profile with fresh pink flowers, brooding cranberries and cherry up front." - Chloe Helfand

Modern Ribera - Pingus 2009 PSI (In Stock)
Danish winemaker Peter Sisseck has proved Ribera's potential, but he noticed that local farming practices were often poor. Restoration of soil and improvement of viticulture took both passion and devotion for this master as he set out to engage growers in the community, supplying technical advice and ultimately rewarding them with the ability to gain high prices for their fruit. Using virtually no new wood, Sisseck's new project, named for the Greek letter Y:Psi, sources fruit from multiple growers and utilizes large and small oak casks and cement tanks to create 'early' wines of subtly, delicacy and modest price.
"Brilliant complexity and balance, even with those dark and brooding notes on the nose. Coffee and lavender keep developing throughout the lively palate" - Dean Wachstetter

Garagiste Ribera - Vizcarra Ramos 2009 JC Vizcarra (2008 In Stock)
Juan Carlos Vizcarra is not only considered one of Ribera's top producers, but also a pioneer in the garagiste movement in Spain. Gentle practices, gravity-flow winemaking and careful vineyard work aim toward wines with a softer, rounder character. The fruit comes from high elevations and the restrained use of oak respects the elegance, and super ageability, that Vizcarra always seeks.
"Knock-your-socks-off nose: stunning fresh, juicy fruit. Becomes creamier on the palate with sour-tart cherries and cranberries, finishing with a coffee-pastry note." - Meridith May