Surprisingly enough, the 2017 Llanos del Almendro has lower alcohol and more acidity than the 2016. But the cycle was shorter, and the texture of the tannins is different, grainier here; the wine might need more time in bottle. All of these wines ferment with indigenous yeasts, and the long élevage is all in used barrels to respect the character of the places. The oak is very integrated and not marked in any of the single-vineyard wines. 1,573 numbered bottles were filled in August 2019.

Fragrant with bay leaf and sandalwood notes, this dark, graceful red knits fine, chalky tannins with a generous core of black plum reduction, herbed olive and hints of mocha and balsamico. Shows good focus and length on the finish. Drink now through 2030. 141 cases made, 30 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Spain / Ribera del Duero Select to Add

The 2017 Llanos del Almendro comes from a parcel of a 140-year-old vineyard planted in clay and sandy loam soils. Aged for 18 months in used French oak barrels, it's garnet-red in hue. The aromas feature hazelnut, dried plum, sour cherry and wild herbs, all subtly intermingled with hints of vanilla and dried flowers. The palate is rich and dry with finely-grained tannins that sculpt a voluminous, expressive palate before the dark fruit finish. This is a substantial wine with a nuanced character.