(includes bits of cabernet franc and petit verdot)

(from Les Bussières and the portion of La Taupe near La Combe d’Orveau)

fleshy style of wine that is not terribly complex

while the oldest goes all the way back to 2005

intense bouquet

Hacienda Monasterio, Ribera Duero Reserva Vintage:2010 (includes bits of cabernet franc(the same blend as for the 2010 version), Inky ruby. Deeper and darker in character than its younger sibling, displaying scents and flavors of blackcurrant, dried cherry and licorice, with a spicy element adding vivacity. Opens nicely with air, picking up a smoky nuance and a touch of candied rose. Finishes sappy and very long, with velvety tannins building slowly and framing the wine's lush fruit. Josh Raynolds