The 2011 Finca la Emperatriz Crianza has a forward personality, quite aromatic and open, with showy notes of smoky bacon that transported me to the Northern Rh?ne for a minute. It is, of course, mostly Tempranillo with 3% Garnacha and 2% white Viura from different plots in the estate fermented in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts and matured for 14 months in American (80%) and French oak barrels. The oak is really well integrated, with spices but none of the overwhelming coconut aromas you find in many wines. The palate is serious, well-built and shows good density, structure and fine tannins. There are good, persistent flavors combining power and finesse, which is remarkable for a year like 2011. It grows in the glass, showing that it is at a nice place in the bottle evolution. A truly impressive Crianza, growing by the vintage, and keeping a very sensible price tag. This should be readily available as 172,800 bottles were produced. Very good value for the quality.