The 2009 Quinta Sardonia, tasted from a barrel sample, is purple/black in color with an enticing bouquet of smoke, game, lightly roasted herbs, blackberry, and blueberry. Supple, ripe, and sweetly-fruited, this lengthy offering should reach its peak 2016 and drink well through 2029. (Not yet released) The estate’s full name is Vinas de la Vega del Duero but all you need to remember is Quinta Sardonia. Located in Sardon del Duero, just outside the Ribera del Duero demarcation line but close enough for inclusion in this report, Quinta Sardonia is a biodynamic project from Peter Sisseck (of Pingus fame) and Jerome Bougnaud. The estate has about 37 acres under vine planted in 2000. The wine is typically composed of a blend of roughly 50% Tempranillo, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec with aging for 18 months in French oak. It is already being proclaimed by some as Spain’s next cult wine. Importer: Eric Solomon Selections, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565