95 Wine Enthusiast

Editor's Choice
"One of Spain's great full-force, modern-style wines, this excels despite the marginal 2008 vintage. It's open-knit and soft on the nose, with ladels of spice, graphite, and black fruit aromas. It feels fresh, balanced, and not overly tannic, with strapping blackberry, coffee, chocolate, spice, and tobacco flavors all rolled into a fabulous whole. Licorice, espresso, and amaro notes grace the padded finish. Drink now - 2018. -M.S." (12/12)

92 Josh Raynolds - Vinous Media

"Deep ruby. Intense, oak-spiced aromas of cherry-vanilla, blueberry, pipe tobacco and mocha. Suave, palate-coating dark fruit flavors show very good concentration, especially for this difficult vintage, and pick up smokiness and floral nuances with aeration. Finishes silky and long, with lasting notes of candied violet and anise." (09/12)

91 Wine Spectator

"This red marries depth and balance, offering rich plum and blackberry fruit accented with espresso and toast. The tannins are full but well-integrated, the acidity gentle. Seamless, in the modern style. Drink now through 2016. 5,000 cases made. -TM" (09/12)