2012 feels much fresher than 2011 in the Duero zone, and the 2012 César Príncipe is a good example of it. It's pure Tempranillo from their El Negral and La Parada vineyards that were planted by the grandfather of the current Príncipe generation in the best terroirs of Cigales. It fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in oak barrels for 14 months. After an initial lactic note that soon blows off, the nose is eminently oaky with plenty of smoky aromas and spices over a core of ripe black fruit, quite similar to the style of plenty of the neighboring Toro and Ribera del Duero reds. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, abundant, slightly grainy tannins and good freshness. It leaves a powdery sensation in the palate and time in bottle should make it rounder. If you're into modern, well-oaked Tempranillo, this is your style; it is nicely crafted without adding anything groundbreaking, but surely among the best wines produced in Cigales. 19,000 bottles produced.