Spain - All Red Wines
One of the most famous vineyards for red wines in Spain is Vega Sicilia, located in Ribera del Duero. Their flagship wine, Vega Sicilia Único, is a legendary red that exemplifies the region's mastery in crafting age-worthy and complex wines. With its deep color, intense aromatics, and a harmonious blend of Tempranillo and other varietals, Vega Sicilia Único has become an iconic representation of Spanish winemaking.
In Priorat, Clos Mogador is celebrated for its exceptional red wines. Their Clos Mogador, crafted from a blend of Grenache, Carignan, and other local varieties, showcases the rugged landscape of the region with its concentrated flavors, firm tannins, and remarkable aging potential.Moving to the region of Bierzo, Descendientes de Jose Palacios is a notable vineyard known for its Mencía-based red wines. Their Petalos del Bierzo is a stellar example of the region's winemaking excellence, offering vibrant fruit flavors, floral aromatics, and a lively acidity that epitomizes the elegance of Bierzo's red wines.
Spain's fine red wines beautifully reflect the country's winemaking diversity, from the bold and structured reds of Ribera del Duero and Rioja to the powerful and mineral-driven wines of Priorat and the elegant and aromatic expressions of Bierzo. With their depth, complexity, and the legacy of Spain's winemaking heritage, these red wines embody the essence of Spain's vibrant wine culture. Spanish red wines promise a journey of flavors that capture the essence of this captivating wine country.
Spain - All Red Wines
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(6x75cl) 2016James Suckling (97)
This is a powerful and cooly tannic old-vine red from Toro. It’s full-bodied and focused with lots of density, yet it remains polished and very long. Moss and wet earth. Rather endless. You can taste the earth of Toro. All the vines are 120 years old, some even 200 years old. Drinkable now, but better in 2028.Inc. TAX€1,954.54 -
Decanter (95)
Grupo Bodegas Olarra was founded in 1973 and is now a large organisation producing wines under three different bodega names in Rioja and beyond. The Laztana 2011 is a blend of about 80% Tempranillo with 10% Garnacha and the remainder Graciano and Mazuelo, from vines aged on average for more than 30 years. Fermentation in stainless steel was followed by malolactic fermentation and nearly three months on lees in new 225-litre Allier oak barrels, then six further months in new oak before cask-ageing up to 27 months in total in a mix of new to five-year-old Allier and US barrels. The wine was subsequently cellared for 40 further months in bottle prior to its first release. Sarah Jane Evans MW - Truffly, balsamic, cherry aromas. Full-bodied and fleshy in the mouth, a really youthful wine, packed with energy. Notes of oranges, blackberries and redcurrants abound, then following through with a firm structure of tannin. Christine Parkinson - Spicy aromas of turmeric, cumin, strawberry and dark chocolate, which all carry through to the palate. Creamy layers of tannin are very appealing, and the strong core of acidity makes this a great wine for food. Very long, confident, concentrated finish. Beth Willard - Attractive nose of rose petal, peach and red cherry. Very ripe, jammy fruit, strawberry, with a touch of white pepper on the finish and fresh acidity. A more fruit-forward style of wine, with well balanced oak Drinking Window 2021 - 2033Inc. TAX€192.23 -
(12x75cl) 2020Olivier Riviere Ganko 2020 embodies the meticulous craftsmanship of a revered French vintner. Crafted in the heart of Bordeaux’s esteemed Margaux appellation, this exquisite wine benefits from a blend of premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, hand-harvested from sustainably managed vineyards. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, the wine undergoes a precise maceration process to extract profound flavours and robust tannins. Aging gracefully in French oak barrels for eighteen months imparts subtle notes of vanilla and cedar, harmoniously balancing its vibrant berry profile. Olivier Riviere, a fourth-generation winemaker, combines traditional techniques with modern innovation to ensure each vintage reflects both heritage and finesse. The Ganko 2020 showcases a deep garnet hue, offering a complex bouquet of blackcurrant, plum, and a hint of spice on the nose. On the palate, it presents a velvety texture with a lingering finish, making Olivier Riviere Ganko 2020 a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking elegance and depth.
Inc. TAX€532.27 -
(6x75cl) 2020Orben Orben Rioja 2020 exemplifies the quintessential elegance of Rioja wines. Crafted in the esteemed Rioja DOCa region of Spain, this vintage is meticulously vinified from selected Tempranillo grapes harvested from organically managed vineyards. The grapes undergo a gentle fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the fruit's vibrant character. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle vanilla and spice undertones while allowing the flavours to harmoniously integrate. Orben, a renowned producer with a legacy of sustainable viticulture, ensures each bottle reflects their commitment to quality and tradition. On the palate, Orben Orben Rioja 2020 reveals a balanced structure with ripe red berry notes, fine tannins, and a lingering finish. Ideal for pairing with red meats and aged cheeses, this wine is a testament to Orben’s expertise and the rich terroir of Rioja.
Inc. TAX€606.94 -
The Paganos Rioja Nieta 2010 epitomises the pinnacle of Rioja excellence. Crafted in the esteemed Rioja Alta region, this exquisite wine is predominantly made from the finest Tempranillo grapes, meticulously handpicked from the estate’s premier vineyards. Under the expert guidance of Enrique Pagano, a maestro in viticulture, the Nieta undergoes an extended aging process, spending 24 months in French oak barrels followed by an additional 24 months in the bottle. This meticulous maturation bestows the wine with a profound complexity, featuring notes of ripe blackberries, dried plum, and subtle hints of vanilla and spice. The 2010 vintage showcases a harmonious balance between robust tannins and vibrant acidity, culminating in a velvety, long-lasting finish. Paganos’ commitment to sustainable farming practices and traditional winemaking techniques is evident in every sip, making the Paganos Rioja Nieta 2010 a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking depth and sophistication in their fine wine collection.
Inc. TAX€506.65 -
Take your sense of taste on a journey with the Paisajes y Vinedos Paisajes VII Cecias 2005. This splendid Rioja wine is born of the prestigious winescape of La Rioja, Spain. It hails specifically from the 3rd micro-parcel of Vinedos de los Paisajes where each vine is tended with meticulous attention.
Produced only from the stellar 2005 vintage, the wine exudes cityscape of harmonic complexity and grace. Traditional fermentation techniques were used, followed by 14 months of aging in French oak imparting a refined depth to the wine. This master craftsman’s dedication to nature's rhythm results in a wine of resounding purity and elegance. Expect a layered bouquet of ripe red fruits, balsamic notes and toasty hints from the wood aging.
Paisajes y Vinedos Paisajes VII Cecias 2005 is a true emblem of an exceptional viticultural year and the passionate skill of its dedicated winemakers.
Inc. TAX€436.42 -
(6x75cl) 2020Decanter (94)
Look no further If you’re after an outstanding wine for your Sunday table, produced by a celebrated winemaker, and which doesn’t break the bank. Alvaro Palacios' Finca La Montesa delivers on all fronts: drinkability, complexity, elegance, length and great value. Rioja – and Garnacha – delivered with poise and classic modernity.Inc. TAX€271.43 -
Palacios Remondo La Vendimia 2022 exemplifies the pinnacle of Spanish viticulture, meticulously crafted in the esteemed Castilla y León region. Produced by the renowned family-owned estate, Palacios Remondo, this exquisite wine is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and tradition. Selected from the finest Tempranillo grapes, harvested by hand to ensure optimal ripeness, La Vendimia 2022 undergoes a gentle fermentation process in stainless steel tanks, preserving its vibrant fruit character and subtle oak nuances. The wine is aged for twelve months in French oak barrels, allowing for a harmonious integration of flavours and a refined structure. On the palate, it reveals layers of ripe red berries, hints of vanilla, and a delicate mineral finish, culminating in a balanced and elegant profile. Perfectly suited for connoisseurs seeking depth and sophistication, Palacios Remondo La Vendimia 2022 is a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.
Inc. TAX€262.27 -
Immerse in the pleasure of the Palacios Remondo Rioja Montesa Reserva Selecction Especial 2015, a masterpiece of Spanish viniculture. An elegy to excellence, this wine originates from the renowned Rioja region, crafted by the prestigious Palacios Remondo winery. Produced by third-generation vintner, Álvaro Palacios, a custodian of old vines and sustainable wine-making practices, this exceptional Reserva infuses finesse and authenticity into every bottle.
A seamless blend of Garnacha and Tempranillo, the production process embodies French oak ageing, ensuring unmatched complexity and an enchanting bouquet. This wine boasts excellent ageing potential, mirroring the unparalleled legacy of its producer. Bright, lively cherry hues enrobe a subtle nose of red fruit and spice. Leveraging on the exceptional 2015 vintage, this Reserva bears the exquisite structure, breadth and balance characteristic of truly world-class wines.
The Palacios Remondo Rioja Montesa Reserva Selecction Especial 2015 is not merely a wine but a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the very soil it hails from.
Inc. TAX€198.23 -
Palacios Remondo Rioja Propiedad 2021 embodies the quintessential expression of Rioja's esteemed winemaking tradition. Crafted in the renowned Rioja Alta region, this vintage benefits from the area's unique clay and limestone soils, imparting exceptional minerality and structure. The estate, celebrated for its commitment to sustainable viticulture, meticulously selects Tempranillo and Graciano grapes, ensuring optimal ripeness and balance. Fermented in French oak barrels for 12 months and aged further in the cellar, Palacios Remondo Rioja Propiedad 2021 reveals a deep ruby hue with complex aromas of ripe red berries, subtle spices, and elegant oak. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and a lingering finish, showcasing the producer's dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Ideal for pairing with grilled meats or mature cheeses, this vintage stands as a testament to refined Rioja excellence.
Inc. TAX€272.14 -
(6x75cl) 2020Wine Advocate (96)
There is a lot of finesse in the 2020 Pegaso Barrancos de Pizarra, with a fine texture and almost powdery, elegant tannins, and it transmits a sensation of harmony. It's perfumed and floral and has more red than black fruit. It's medium to full-bodied, precise, clean, tasty and long. It's ripe, but the alcohol (15%) is completely unnoticeable. In fact, it feels less ripe than the Granito from 2020 that I tasted next to it. 4,104 bottles produced. It was bottled in May 2022.Inc. TAX€293.74 -
(6x75cl) 2005Vinous (91+)
Saturated ruby. Inky cherry and blackberry on the nose, with deeper espresso, asphalt and licorice accents. Chewy and packed with dark fruit flavors accompanied by smoky, meaty qualities and firmed by solid tannins. Finishes with strong cherry pit and bitter chocolate notes and impressive power, gaining sweetness with aeration. This is almost painfully young but clearly has the material to repay cellaring.Inc. TAX€350.14 -
(1x75cl) 2013James Suckling (94)
Gorgeous aromas of crushed blackberries, raspberries and lemon peel. Full body, yet refined and polished tannins. Mostly tempranillo co-fermented with garnacha and bobal. old vines. Superb finish. Great wine.Inc. TAX€97.88 -
Wine Advocate (93+)
The youngest of the released wines I tasted is a red—the 2016 Pícaro del Águila Tinto. It is from what they consider to be one of the best and freshest vintages in recent times. This is produced with the vines from the warmer parts of La Aguilera, a cold place to start with (and in a cooler year). The old vines are planted with a mix that is dominated by Tempranillo but also contains some 5% other grapes. All the grapes are picked and fermented together with full clusters and natural yeasts in concrete and stainless steel vats. It matured in oak barrels for 13 months. This is fragrant, expressive, open, aromatic and really attractive. The palate is really balanced, with great freshness, fine tannins and a very pleasant mouthfeel—supple, balanced and with great depth. This is the best version of this bottling so far, and it seems like 2016 could be a great overall vintage, based on some other wines I sampled from cask (many of them have an extended élevage). 21,550 bottles and 624 magnums were filled unfiltered and unfined in November 2017.Inc. TAX€564.96 -
Wine Advocate (93)
2017 was an unusually short crop as a result of terrible frost in April 2017, when thermometers reached -10 degrees Celsius in some places. The 2017 Pícaro del Águila Tinto, their entry-level and most approachable red, was seriously affected, of course. They lost some 60% of the volume, but the wine is incredible for the condition of the year. It feels a little more mysterious, not as expressive or open, a bit reductive perhaps, but the aromas are clean and don't show any excess ripeness. They did an amazing job eliminating all the raisins that didn't make it into the fermentation vat, and the extra workload has clearly paid off. The wine has some grip and fine, chalky tannins. 17,025 bottles and 487 magnums produced. It was bottled unfiltered and unfined and with just a little sulfur added in October 2018 after 12 months in oak barrels.Inc. TAX€527.26 -
Wine Advocate (94+)
The youngest of the reds I tasted, the 2019 Pícaro del Águila Tinto is their most approachable red and is still serious, vibrant and aromatic with great length and still has good aging potential. They use the grapes from the warmest vineyards they have in the village of La Aguilera, form the northern part closer to La Horra, mostly Tempranillo but with some 5% of other varieties (red and white) interplanted in the old vineyards, fermented together with full clusters and indigenous yeasts and matured in French oak barrels for 15 months. Like the 2019 Clarete, this is young and tender and has more tension than I expected for a warmer year. It has less oak than previous years (only 10% or 15% new barrels), and the wine feels better balanced and is floral and aromatic. It's medium-bodied with a very fine texture, a pretty wine that drinks very well and doesn't reflect a warm year at all, as it has incredible freshness. A great Pícaro. They produced 69,852 bottles and 850 magnums, a notable increase in volume... while they increase the quality! It was bottled in February 2021.Inc. TAX€384.46 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The juicy, velvety and aromatic red 2020 Pícaro del Águila Tinto is fine-boned and quite faithfully represents what they want to express with this cuvée; it's very tasty and has some chalkiness (perhaps through less ripeness than in years like 2018) with 14% alcohol and mellow acidity. The nose reveals some Côte-Rôtie-like notes of smoked meat and violets. 2020 delivered a good crop of healthy grapes that produced the finest wine to date for this bottling. This is superb, elegant and powerful, with everything in place (seems to be the signature of 2020) and perfectly integrated oak. 71,382 bottles and 1,979 magnums produced. It was bottled in September 2021.Inc. TAX€386.86 -
Wine Advocate (94)
The 2022 Pícaro del Águila Tinto has similar parameters to the 2021 (14% alcohol), but the sensation is of higher ripeness. Surprisingly enough, it has a lower pH than the 2021 I tasted next to it; they used more white to give it freshness and more of the other varieties. It has chalky, dry tannins, reflecting the terroir more, which is remarkable for such a warm and dry year. This is more serious, and the 2021 is more approachable. A triumph over the vintage. 61,757 bottles and 1,979 magnums produced. It was bottled in January 2024.Inc. TAX€396.46 -
(1x75cl) 1995Vinous (96)
Deep ruby-red. Mellow, deep aromas of dark berries and exotic wood tones, with a suggestion of Provençal herbs; not quite as lively or perfumed as the brighter '96. Shows the roasted, gamey ripeness that characterizes so many '95s from the region. Great sweetness and complexity in the mouth. Doesn't possess quite the sappy lift of the '96, but perhaps even more concentrated. Powerful underlying structure and palate-staining persistence. Has the thick, 3-D texture to buffer its huge, ripe tannins. I ultimately give the '96 a slight edge on sheer brightness, but this is compelling wine.Inc. TAX€1,738.75 -
Vinous (96+)
Deep, bright ruby. Extraordinarily complex, lively nose combines black raspberry, bitter chocolate, nutmeg and an intriguing suggestion of roasted herbs. Amazingly rich and smooth in the mouth; truly explosive fruit offers superb vinosity and snap. Like liquid velvet but with great clarity of flavor. Builds in intensity and seems to grow thicker on the back half. The huge finishing fruit coats the entire palate. Amazing juice.Inc. TAX€1,078.75 -
(1x75cl) 1999Wine Advocate (98)
Readers can look forward to a spectacular, nearly perfect 1999 Pingus. It boasts an opaque ruby/purple color, sensational extract, gorgeous concentration, and spectacularly intense blackberry and cherry aromas and flavors infused with incense, coffee, chocolate, and toasty new oak. Enormous levels of extract and richness are accompanied by a full-bodied, glycerin-imbued, thick, viscous finish. The tannin is nearly hidden by the wine's wealth of fruit and concentration. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025.Inc. TAX€851.64 -
(6x75cl) 2000Vinous (95)
Bright ruby to the rim. Initially cool aromas of blackberry, coffee, mocha and lead pencil; showed a chocolatey aspect with 24 hours in the recorked bottle. Very rich, dense and deep, with a suave, utterly creamy texture. The wine's great sucrosity is buffered by tangy acidity. Finishes with noble, sweet tannins and great persistence. The crop levels in the vineyards that go into Pingus were cut by spring hail (and Peter Sisseck's decision to prune all of the affected bunches), resulting in the lowest yield for this wine since its inception in 1995.Inc. TAX€5,471.04 -
Wine Advocate (98)
The 2006 Pingus is a spectacular effort. A glass-staining saturated opaque purple, it delivers an other-worldly perfume of smoke, lavender, mineral, scorched earth, and an amalgam of kinky black fruits. Voluptuous on the palate in a measured way, it has superb balance, layered, complex flavors, ripe tannin that is entirely covered by the fruit, and a decade of aging potential. This monumental wine will evolve effortlessly for 10-15 years and offer a drinking window extending from 2016 to 2036.Inc. TAX€11,149.52 -
(6x75cl) 2007Wine Advocate (98)
Vintage conditions required a stricter selection for the 2007 Pingus. The aromatics are more brooding but seriously multifaceted. Smoke, pencil lead, truffle, Asian spices, blackberry, and licorice notes are followed by a chewy, dense, rich, powerful wine with fully integrated oak, savory black fruits, ripe tannins, and a decade of aging potential. Drink it from 2020 to 2037 if not longer.Inc. TAX€5,308.54 -
Decanter (99)
I tried this wine first at the time of release and it shocked me. Classic Pingus, oaky and muscular, was transformed into a jewel of infinite delicacy, with a pure and precise fruit expression, fine-grained tannins (not a hint of oak tannins), joyously open on the finish. Ten years later, the wine has gained in complexity, while keeping a youthful profile and extending its already persistent finish. I am sure that it will continue to reach new heights, but I couldn't be able to refrain from drinking it now if I could. The satin of Burgundy and the fine detailing of Bordeaux, all in one wine.Inc. TAX€7,396.54 -
(1x150cl) 2011Wine Advocate (95)
As with all the 2011s, the 2011 Pingus is riper, with never-seen-before alcohol levels (15.5%), but the wine feels extremely balanced. As usual, the highly-selected grapes were fermented in 2,000-liter oak vats with indigenous yeasts and aged for 22 months in second-and third-fill barrels. It is ripe and exuberant, with notes of violets, spices (curry!), smoky peat and umami-like meat-broth aromas. The palate is full-bodied, glyceric with sophisticated tannins, but plenty of them, so they need to calm down a little. I believe there will be a lot of people who will really love this 2011, it's showy and exuberant. 6,000 bottles produced. Drink 2016-2020.Inc. TAX€1,947.83 -
Wine Advocate (95)
As with all the 2011s, the 2011 Pingus is riper, with never-seen-before alcohol levels (15.5%), but the wine feels extremely balanced. As usual, the highly-selected grapes were fermented in 2,000-liter oak vats with indigenous yeasts and aged for 22 months in second-and third-fill barrels. It is ripe and exuberant, with notes of violets, spices (curry!), smoky peat and umami-like meat-broth aromas. The palate is full-bodied, glyceric with sophisticated tannins, but plenty of them, so they need to calm down a little. I believe there will be a lot of people who will really love this 2011, it's showy and exuberant. 6,000 bottles produced. Drink 2016-2020.Inc. TAX€2,456.75 -
(1x75cl) 2012Wine Advocate (100)
I finally tasted the 2012 Pingus in bottle, a wine I sampled last year before bottling, and even if it was the final blend, all of a sudden proprietor Peter Sisseck decided to delay the bottling. He cannot really explain the reason why; it was really a hunch, something he felt and he thinks the decision was right. The good news is that the wine delivers all that it promised before bottling. There are plenty of floral notes, violets, even lilies; it's extremely aromatic, subtle and precise with just some Indian spices in the background to give it an exotic character. With time in the glass, there are some earthy, mineral (even diesel-like?) aromas. It has a rare combination of power and finesse, concentrated but delicate, with buttery, ultra-refined tannins, great balance, acidity, length and a silky texture, not easy to find in Ribera del Duero. This could very well be the best Pingus ever, in the style of 1996, a year of elegance and good acidity, more Burgundian/Atlantic (Peter Sisseck does not agree with the term Burgundian applied to Ribera del Duero) than the average. This wine has the conjunction of their knowledge and the improvements in the vineyards. This is stunning, simply perfect. It has all the components to age for 20+ years. 6,000 bottles were finally filled the first week of September 2014. As I explained last time, 2012 represents a big change in Pingus with 0% new oak used for its upbringing.Inc. TAX€1,312.56 -
(1x150cl) 2013Wine Advocate (96)
I tasted the 2013 Pingus one week before the wine was to be bottled, but one never knows. I tasted the 2012 under the same circumstances last year, and after my tasting, Peter Sisseck decided the wine needed some more time, so the élevage was extended and the bottling delayed. I was told this should be very close to the bottled version. The nose is aromatic, expressive and open, quite perfumed and subtle, with no traces of oak (the wine now ages in used barriques); even the spices are very much in the background. The Pingus vineyards behaved quite well in a difficult vintage, as great vineyards are a lot more homogeneous, so the vines are very balanced: the two vineyards used for Pingus, San Cristobal and Barroso, were planted in 1929 with two different massale selections. The palate is also approachable and gentle, with very good acidity and very fine tannins, elegance and character. I think there will be very few (or none!) wines in Ribera in 2013 like this Pingus. Well done! Three weeks later, I received an email letting me know that the wine had been bottled, so I proceeded to taste the bottle version, which showed what the sample promised. 2013 will be a vintage, that in Ribera del Duero, will show the differences of the work in the vineyards and what they do at Pingus clearly paid off. Even after the recent operation, the wine is harmonious and feels very balanced; there is no dizziness and it keeps the poise. A real triumph for the vintage. 6,600 bottles were filled at the end of July 2015.Inc. TAX€1,705.45 -
Wine Advocate (100)
I don't think I've ever tasted a wine more recently bottled than the 2014 Pingus, which was bottled in the morning and I tasted it that very same evening! Peter Sisseck compares this to the 1995, the first vintage ever produced, when he learned that when you have such perfect grapes, you should do very little to the wine. He's been trying to replicate that first vintage, but there's nothing you can do to force it, as it has to be the natural conditions of the vintage that bring those grapes. What he also learned with the 1995 was that with wines like that, you need a long and slow aging in oak; so for the 2014, he decided to do a little longer élevage—three winters in barrel—but in 100% used barrels, something he started in 2012. If it would have been new oak, as in the past, it would have been impossible to have such extended aging without marking the wine too much and possibly forever. The wine was quite tannic to start with, but it was racked every six months, and in that way they have managed to tame those tannins without getting the wine tired, as the aging itself was quite reductive. The nose is quite harmonious and open, but maybe not very expressive, a normal thing considering the extremely short bottle age it had (hours!), but it should gain precision in bottle. In instances like this, you have to guide yourself by the palate. And it's precisely on the palate where you find that texture that is almost unique to Ribera del Duero when it's as perfect as this. It's very different from other zones, a velvety mouthfeel and a surrounding sensation of comfort, incredibly long. The tannins are ultra fine and with that subtle chalkiness of the limestone soils, which also added to the tastiness and the supple aftertaste. In short, I cannot think of a way of improving this Pingus other, than getting a magnum instead of a regular bottle! Congratulations, Peter Sisseck! 4,800 bottles were filled on January 16th of 2017, a slightly shorter production than the average, because part of the vines were hit by hail and didn't make it into the final blend. Now stay tuned for 2015 and 2016.Inc. TAX€2,017.69
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(6x75cl) 2016
James Suckling (97)
This is a powerful and cooly tannic old-vine red from Toro. It’s full-bodied and focused with lots of density, yet it remains polished and very long. Moss and wet earth. Rather endless. You can taste the earth of Toro. All the vines are 120 years old, some even 200 years old. Drinkable now, but better in 2028.In Bond€1,605.00 -
Decanter (95)
Grupo Bodegas Olarra was founded in 1973 and is now a large organisation producing wines under three different bodega names in Rioja and beyond. The Laztana 2011 is a blend of about 80% Tempranillo with 10% Garnacha and the remainder Graciano and Mazuelo, from vines aged on average for more than 30 years. Fermentation in stainless steel was followed by malolactic fermentation and nearly three months on lees in new 225-litre Allier oak barrels, then six further months in new oak before cask-ageing up to 27 months in total in a mix of new to five-year-old Allier and US barrels. The wine was subsequently cellared for 40 further months in bottle prior to its first release. Sarah Jane Evans MW - Truffly, balsamic, cherry aromas. Full-bodied and fleshy in the mouth, a really youthful wine, packed with energy. Notes of oranges, blackberries and redcurrants abound, then following through with a firm structure of tannin. Christine Parkinson - Spicy aromas of turmeric, cumin, strawberry and dark chocolate, which all carry through to the palate. Creamy layers of tannin are very appealing, and the strong core of acidity makes this a great wine for food. Very long, confident, concentrated finish. Beth Willard - Attractive nose of rose petal, peach and red cherry. Very ripe, jammy fruit, strawberry, with a touch of white pepper on the finish and fresh acidity. A more fruit-forward style of wine, with well balanced oak Drinking Window 2021 - 2033In Bond€138.00 -
(12x75cl) 2020
Olivier Riviere Ganko 2020 embodies the meticulous craftsmanship of a revered French vintner. Crafted in the heart of Bordeaux’s esteemed Margaux appellation, this exquisite wine benefits from a blend of premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, hand-harvested from sustainably managed vineyards. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, the wine undergoes a precise maceration process to extract profound flavours and robust tannins. Aging gracefully in French oak barrels for eighteen months imparts subtle notes of vanilla and cedar, harmoniously balancing its vibrant berry profile. Olivier Riviere, a fourth-generation winemaker, combines traditional techniques with modern innovation to ensure each vintage reflects both heritage and finesse. The Ganko 2020 showcases a deep garnet hue, offering a complex bouquet of blackcurrant, plum, and a hint of spice on the nose. On the palate, it presents a velvety texture with a lingering finish, making Olivier Riviere Ganko 2020 a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking elegance and depth.
In Bond€396.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Orben Orben Rioja 2020 exemplifies the quintessential elegance of Rioja wines. Crafted in the esteemed Rioja DOCa region of Spain, this vintage is meticulously vinified from selected Tempranillo grapes harvested from organically managed vineyards. The grapes undergo a gentle fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the fruit's vibrant character. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle vanilla and spice undertones while allowing the flavours to harmoniously integrate. Orben, a renowned producer with a legacy of sustainable viticulture, ensures each bottle reflects their commitment to quality and tradition. On the palate, Orben Orben Rioja 2020 reveals a balanced structure with ripe red berry notes, fine tannins, and a lingering finish. Ideal for pairing with red meats and aged cheeses, this wine is a testament to Orben’s expertise and the rich terroir of Rioja.
In Bond€482.00 -
The Paganos Rioja Nieta 2010 epitomises the pinnacle of Rioja excellence. Crafted in the esteemed Rioja Alta region, this exquisite wine is predominantly made from the finest Tempranillo grapes, meticulously handpicked from the estate’s premier vineyards. Under the expert guidance of Enrique Pagano, a maestro in viticulture, the Nieta undergoes an extended aging process, spending 24 months in French oak barrels followed by an additional 24 months in the bottle. This meticulous maturation bestows the wine with a profound complexity, featuring notes of ripe blackberries, dried plum, and subtle hints of vanilla and spice. The 2010 vintage showcases a harmonious balance between robust tannins and vibrant acidity, culminating in a velvety, long-lasting finish. Paganos’ commitment to sustainable farming practices and traditional winemaking techniques is evident in every sip, making the Paganos Rioja Nieta 2010 a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking depth and sophistication in their fine wine collection.
In Bond€409.00 -
Take your sense of taste on a journey with the Paisajes y Vinedos Paisajes VII Cecias 2005. This splendid Rioja wine is born of the prestigious winescape of La Rioja, Spain. It hails specifically from the 3rd micro-parcel of Vinedos de los Paisajes where each vine is tended with meticulous attention.
Produced only from the stellar 2005 vintage, the wine exudes cityscape of harmonic complexity and grace. Traditional fermentation techniques were used, followed by 14 months of aging in French oak imparting a refined depth to the wine. This master craftsman’s dedication to nature's rhythm results in a wine of resounding purity and elegance. Expect a layered bouquet of ripe red fruits, balsamic notes and toasty hints from the wood aging.
Paisajes y Vinedos Paisajes VII Cecias 2005 is a true emblem of an exceptional viticultural year and the passionate skill of its dedicated winemakers.
In Bond€345.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Decanter (94)
Look no further If you’re after an outstanding wine for your Sunday table, produced by a celebrated winemaker, and which doesn’t break the bank. Alvaro Palacios' Finca La Montesa delivers on all fronts: drinkability, complexity, elegance, length and great value. Rioja – and Garnacha – delivered with poise and classic modernity.In Bond€204.00 -
Palacios Remondo La Vendimia 2022 exemplifies the pinnacle of Spanish viticulture, meticulously crafted in the esteemed Castilla y León region. Produced by the renowned family-owned estate, Palacios Remondo, this exquisite wine is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and tradition. Selected from the finest Tempranillo grapes, harvested by hand to ensure optimal ripeness, La Vendimia 2022 undergoes a gentle fermentation process in stainless steel tanks, preserving its vibrant fruit character and subtle oak nuances. The wine is aged for twelve months in French oak barrels, allowing for a harmonious integration of flavours and a refined structure. On the palate, it reveals layers of ripe red berries, hints of vanilla, and a delicate mineral finish, culminating in a balanced and elegant profile. Perfectly suited for connoisseurs seeking depth and sophistication, Palacios Remondo La Vendimia 2022 is a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.
In Bond€171.00 -
Immerse in the pleasure of the Palacios Remondo Rioja Montesa Reserva Selecction Especial 2015, a masterpiece of Spanish viniculture. An elegy to excellence, this wine originates from the renowned Rioja region, crafted by the prestigious Palacios Remondo winery. Produced by third-generation vintner, Álvaro Palacios, a custodian of old vines and sustainable wine-making practices, this exceptional Reserva infuses finesse and authenticity into every bottle.
A seamless blend of Garnacha and Tempranillo, the production process embodies French oak ageing, ensuring unmatched complexity and an enchanting bouquet. This wine boasts excellent ageing potential, mirroring the unparalleled legacy of its producer. Bright, lively cherry hues enrobe a subtle nose of red fruit and spice. Leveraging on the exceptional 2015 vintage, this Reserva bears the exquisite structure, breadth and balance characteristic of truly world-class wines.
The Palacios Remondo Rioja Montesa Reserva Selecction Especial 2015 is not merely a wine but a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the very soil it hails from.
In Bond€143.00 -
Palacios Remondo Rioja Propiedad 2021 embodies the quintessential expression of Rioja's esteemed winemaking tradition. Crafted in the renowned Rioja Alta region, this vintage benefits from the area's unique clay and limestone soils, imparting exceptional minerality and structure. The estate, celebrated for its commitment to sustainable viticulture, meticulously selects Tempranillo and Graciano grapes, ensuring optimal ripeness and balance. Fermented in French oak barrels for 12 months and aged further in the cellar, Palacios Remondo Rioja Propiedad 2021 reveals a deep ruby hue with complex aromas of ripe red berries, subtle spices, and elegant oak. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and a lingering finish, showcasing the producer's dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Ideal for pairing with grilled meats or mature cheeses, this vintage stands as a testament to refined Rioja excellence.
In Bond€203.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Wine Advocate (96)
There is a lot of finesse in the 2020 Pegaso Barrancos de Pizarra, with a fine texture and almost powdery, elegant tannins, and it transmits a sensation of harmony. It's perfumed and floral and has more red than black fruit. It's medium to full-bodied, precise, clean, tasty and long. It's ripe, but the alcohol (15%) is completely unnoticeable. In fact, it feels less ripe than the Granito from 2020 that I tasted next to it. 4,104 bottles produced. It was bottled in May 2022.In Bond€221.00 -
(6x75cl) 2005
Vinous (91+)
Saturated ruby. Inky cherry and blackberry on the nose, with deeper espresso, asphalt and licorice accents. Chewy and packed with dark fruit flavors accompanied by smoky, meaty qualities and firmed by solid tannins. Finishes with strong cherry pit and bitter chocolate notes and impressive power, gaining sweetness with aeration. This is almost painfully young but clearly has the material to repay cellaring.In Bond€268.00 -
(1x75cl) 2013
James Suckling (94)
Gorgeous aromas of crushed blackberries, raspberries and lemon peel. Full body, yet refined and polished tannins. Mostly tempranillo co-fermented with garnacha and bobal. old vines. Superb finish. Great wine.In Bond€78.00 -
Wine Advocate (93+)
The youngest of the released wines I tasted is a red—the 2016 Pícaro del Águila Tinto. It is from what they consider to be one of the best and freshest vintages in recent times. This is produced with the vines from the warmer parts of La Aguilera, a cold place to start with (and in a cooler year). The old vines are planted with a mix that is dominated by Tempranillo but also contains some 5% other grapes. All the grapes are picked and fermented together with full clusters and natural yeasts in concrete and stainless steel vats. It matured in oak barrels for 13 months. This is fragrant, expressive, open, aromatic and really attractive. The palate is really balanced, with great freshness, fine tannins and a very pleasant mouthfeel—supple, balanced and with great depth. This is the best version of this bottling so far, and it seems like 2016 could be a great overall vintage, based on some other wines I sampled from cask (many of them have an extended élevage). 21,550 bottles and 624 magnums were filled unfiltered and unfined in November 2017.In Bond€428.00 -
Wine Advocate (93)
2017 was an unusually short crop as a result of terrible frost in April 2017, when thermometers reached -10 degrees Celsius in some places. The 2017 Pícaro del Águila Tinto, their entry-level and most approachable red, was seriously affected, of course. They lost some 60% of the volume, but the wine is incredible for the condition of the year. It feels a little more mysterious, not as expressive or open, a bit reductive perhaps, but the aromas are clean and don't show any excess ripeness. They did an amazing job eliminating all the raisins that didn't make it into the fermentation vat, and the extra workload has clearly paid off. The wine has some grip and fine, chalky tannins. 17,025 bottles and 487 magnums produced. It was bottled unfiltered and unfined and with just a little sulfur added in October 2018 after 12 months in oak barrels.In Bond€395.00 -
Wine Advocate (94+)
The youngest of the reds I tasted, the 2019 Pícaro del Águila Tinto is their most approachable red and is still serious, vibrant and aromatic with great length and still has good aging potential. They use the grapes from the warmest vineyards they have in the village of La Aguilera, form the northern part closer to La Horra, mostly Tempranillo but with some 5% of other varieties (red and white) interplanted in the old vineyards, fermented together with full clusters and indigenous yeasts and matured in French oak barrels for 15 months. Like the 2019 Clarete, this is young and tender and has more tension than I expected for a warmer year. It has less oak than previous years (only 10% or 15% new barrels), and the wine feels better balanced and is floral and aromatic. It's medium-bodied with a very fine texture, a pretty wine that drinks very well and doesn't reflect a warm year at all, as it has incredible freshness. A great Pícaro. They produced 69,852 bottles and 850 magnums, a notable increase in volume... while they increase the quality! It was bottled in February 2021.In Bond€276.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The juicy, velvety and aromatic red 2020 Pícaro del Águila Tinto is fine-boned and quite faithfully represents what they want to express with this cuvée; it's very tasty and has some chalkiness (perhaps through less ripeness than in years like 2018) with 14% alcohol and mellow acidity. The nose reveals some Côte-Rôtie-like notes of smoked meat and violets. 2020 delivered a good crop of healthy grapes that produced the finest wine to date for this bottling. This is superb, elegant and powerful, with everything in place (seems to be the signature of 2020) and perfectly integrated oak. 71,382 bottles and 1,979 magnums produced. It was bottled in September 2021.In Bond€278.00 -
Wine Advocate (94)
The 2022 Pícaro del Águila Tinto has similar parameters to the 2021 (14% alcohol), but the sensation is of higher ripeness. Surprisingly enough, it has a lower pH than the 2021 I tasted next to it; they used more white to give it freshness and more of the other varieties. It has chalky, dry tannins, reflecting the terroir more, which is remarkable for such a warm and dry year. This is more serious, and the 2021 is more approachable. A triumph over the vintage. 61,757 bottles and 1,979 magnums produced. It was bottled in January 2024.In Bond€286.00 -
(1x75cl) 1995
Vinous (96)
Deep ruby-red. Mellow, deep aromas of dark berries and exotic wood tones, with a suggestion of Provençal herbs; not quite as lively or perfumed as the brighter '96. Shows the roasted, gamey ripeness that characterizes so many '95s from the region. Great sweetness and complexity in the mouth. Doesn't possess quite the sappy lift of the '96, but perhaps even more concentrated. Powerful underlying structure and palate-staining persistence. Has the thick, 3-D texture to buffer its huge, ripe tannins. I ultimately give the '96 a slight edge on sheer brightness, but this is compelling wine.In Bond€1,445.00 -
Vinous (96+)
Deep, bright ruby. Extraordinarily complex, lively nose combines black raspberry, bitter chocolate, nutmeg and an intriguing suggestion of roasted herbs. Amazingly rich and smooth in the mouth; truly explosive fruit offers superb vinosity and snap. Like liquid velvet but with great clarity of flavor. Builds in intensity and seems to grow thicker on the back half. The huge finishing fruit coats the entire palate. Amazing juice.In Bond€895.00 -
(1x75cl) 1999
Wine Advocate (98)
Readers can look forward to a spectacular, nearly perfect 1999 Pingus. It boasts an opaque ruby/purple color, sensational extract, gorgeous concentration, and spectacularly intense blackberry and cherry aromas and flavors infused with incense, coffee, chocolate, and toasty new oak. Enormous levels of extract and richness are accompanied by a full-bodied, glycerin-imbued, thick, viscous finish. The tannin is nearly hidden by the wine's wealth of fruit and concentration. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025.In Bond€706.00 -
(6x75cl) 2000
Vinous (95)
Bright ruby to the rim. Initially cool aromas of blackberry, coffee, mocha and lead pencil; showed a chocolatey aspect with 24 hours in the recorked bottle. Very rich, dense and deep, with a suave, utterly creamy texture. The wine's great sucrosity is buffered by tangy acidity. Finishes with noble, sweet tannins and great persistence. The crop levels in the vineyards that go into Pingus were cut by spring hail (and Peter Sisseck's decision to prune all of the affected bunches), resulting in the lowest yield for this wine since its inception in 1995.In Bond€4,540.00 -
Wine Advocate (98)
The 2006 Pingus is a spectacular effort. A glass-staining saturated opaque purple, it delivers an other-worldly perfume of smoke, lavender, mineral, scorched earth, and an amalgam of kinky black fruits. Voluptuous on the palate in a measured way, it has superb balance, layered, complex flavors, ripe tannin that is entirely covered by the fruit, and a decade of aging potential. This monumental wine will evolve effortlessly for 10-15 years and offer a drinking window extending from 2016 to 2036.In Bond€9,245.00 -
(6x75cl) 2007
Wine Advocate (98)
Vintage conditions required a stricter selection for the 2007 Pingus. The aromatics are more brooding but seriously multifaceted. Smoke, pencil lead, truffle, Asian spices, blackberry, and licorice notes are followed by a chewy, dense, rich, powerful wine with fully integrated oak, savory black fruits, ripe tannins, and a decade of aging potential. Drink it from 2020 to 2037 if not longer.In Bond€4,400.00 -
Decanter (99)
I tried this wine first at the time of release and it shocked me. Classic Pingus, oaky and muscular, was transformed into a jewel of infinite delicacy, with a pure and precise fruit expression, fine-grained tannins (not a hint of oak tannins), joyously open on the finish. Ten years later, the wine has gained in complexity, while keeping a youthful profile and extending its already persistent finish. I am sure that it will continue to reach new heights, but I couldn't be able to refrain from drinking it now if I could. The satin of Burgundy and the fine detailing of Bordeaux, all in one wine.In Bond€6,140.00 -
(1x150cl) 2011
Wine Advocate (95)
As with all the 2011s, the 2011 Pingus is riper, with never-seen-before alcohol levels (15.5%), but the wine feels extremely balanced. As usual, the highly-selected grapes were fermented in 2,000-liter oak vats with indigenous yeasts and aged for 22 months in second-and third-fill barrels. It is ripe and exuberant, with notes of violets, spices (curry!), smoky peat and umami-like meat-broth aromas. The palate is full-bodied, glyceric with sophisticated tannins, but plenty of them, so they need to calm down a little. I believe there will be a lot of people who will really love this 2011, it's showy and exuberant. 6,000 bottles produced. Drink 2016-2020.In Bond€1,615.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
As with all the 2011s, the 2011 Pingus is riper, with never-seen-before alcohol levels (15.5%), but the wine feels extremely balanced. As usual, the highly-selected grapes were fermented in 2,000-liter oak vats with indigenous yeasts and aged for 22 months in second-and third-fill barrels. It is ripe and exuberant, with notes of violets, spices (curry!), smoky peat and umami-like meat-broth aromas. The palate is full-bodied, glyceric with sophisticated tannins, but plenty of them, so they need to calm down a little. I believe there will be a lot of people who will really love this 2011, it's showy and exuberant. 6,000 bottles produced. Drink 2016-2020.In Bond€2,035.00 -
(1x75cl) 2012
Wine Advocate (100)
I finally tasted the 2012 Pingus in bottle, a wine I sampled last year before bottling, and even if it was the final blend, all of a sudden proprietor Peter Sisseck decided to delay the bottling. He cannot really explain the reason why; it was really a hunch, something he felt and he thinks the decision was right. The good news is that the wine delivers all that it promised before bottling. There are plenty of floral notes, violets, even lilies; it's extremely aromatic, subtle and precise with just some Indian spices in the background to give it an exotic character. With time in the glass, there are some earthy, mineral (even diesel-like?) aromas. It has a rare combination of power and finesse, concentrated but delicate, with buttery, ultra-refined tannins, great balance, acidity, length and a silky texture, not easy to find in Ribera del Duero. This could very well be the best Pingus ever, in the style of 1996, a year of elegance and good acidity, more Burgundian/Atlantic (Peter Sisseck does not agree with the term Burgundian applied to Ribera del Duero) than the average. This wine has the conjunction of their knowledge and the improvements in the vineyards. This is stunning, simply perfect. It has all the components to age for 20+ years. 6,000 bottles were finally filled the first week of September 2014. As I explained last time, 2012 represents a big change in Pingus with 0% new oak used for its upbringing.In Bond€1,090.00 -
(1x150cl) 2013
Wine Advocate (96)
I tasted the 2013 Pingus one week before the wine was to be bottled, but one never knows. I tasted the 2012 under the same circumstances last year, and after my tasting, Peter Sisseck decided the wine needed some more time, so the élevage was extended and the bottling delayed. I was told this should be very close to the bottled version. The nose is aromatic, expressive and open, quite perfumed and subtle, with no traces of oak (the wine now ages in used barriques); even the spices are very much in the background. The Pingus vineyards behaved quite well in a difficult vintage, as great vineyards are a lot more homogeneous, so the vines are very balanced: the two vineyards used for Pingus, San Cristobal and Barroso, were planted in 1929 with two different massale selections. The palate is also approachable and gentle, with very good acidity and very fine tannins, elegance and character. I think there will be very few (or none!) wines in Ribera in 2013 like this Pingus. Well done! Three weeks later, I received an email letting me know that the wine had been bottled, so I proceeded to taste the bottle version, which showed what the sample promised. 2013 will be a vintage, that in Ribera del Duero, will show the differences of the work in the vineyards and what they do at Pingus clearly paid off. Even after the recent operation, the wine is harmonious and feels very balanced; there is no dizziness and it keeps the poise. A real triumph for the vintage. 6,600 bottles were filled at the end of July 2015.In Bond€1,415.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
I don't think I've ever tasted a wine more recently bottled than the 2014 Pingus, which was bottled in the morning and I tasted it that very same evening! Peter Sisseck compares this to the 1995, the first vintage ever produced, when he learned that when you have such perfect grapes, you should do very little to the wine. He's been trying to replicate that first vintage, but there's nothing you can do to force it, as it has to be the natural conditions of the vintage that bring those grapes. What he also learned with the 1995 was that with wines like that, you need a long and slow aging in oak; so for the 2014, he decided to do a little longer élevage—three winters in barrel—but in 100% used barrels, something he started in 2012. If it would have been new oak, as in the past, it would have been impossible to have such extended aging without marking the wine too much and possibly forever. The wine was quite tannic to start with, but it was racked every six months, and in that way they have managed to tame those tannins without getting the wine tired, as the aging itself was quite reductive. The nose is quite harmonious and open, but maybe not very expressive, a normal thing considering the extremely short bottle age it had (hours!), but it should gain precision in bottle. In instances like this, you have to guide yourself by the palate. And it's precisely on the palate where you find that texture that is almost unique to Ribera del Duero when it's as perfect as this. It's very different from other zones, a velvety mouthfeel and a surrounding sensation of comfort, incredibly long. The tannins are ultra fine and with that subtle chalkiness of the limestone soils, which also added to the tastiness and the supple aftertaste. In short, I cannot think of a way of improving this Pingus other, than getting a magnum instead of a regular bottle! Congratulations, Peter Sisseck! 4,800 bottles were filled on January 16th of 2017, a slightly shorter production than the average, because part of the vines were hit by hail and didn't make it into the final blend. Now stay tuned for 2015 and 2016.In Bond€1,675.00
