A unique style of old-vines, single-vineyard Ribera aged 100% in new American oak, thus it delivers telltale aromas of fennel, dill, vanilla and licorice/anisette. Aged 18 months in barrel so it’s oaky, but it’s also dark, loaded with black fruit and spice, and chocolaty. Nuances include cola and the perfect raisin. A lovely wine that hits the spot. Best 2012– 2020. ——M.S.(10/1/2010)—— 94

Smoky and subtle on the nose, except for some robust coconut that had to come from the barrel aging. In the mouth, vanilla and coconut remain present, sitting alongside stately berry fruit and tobacco flavors. This is a rock-steady wine with all the characteristics of a high-flying Ribera del Duero. While it’s an excellent example, does it sing to the tune of $70? You be the judge. 208 cases produced.——M.S.(6/1/2007)—— 90

A single-vineyard wine made from the fruit of 65-year-old Tempranillo vines, it spends 18 months in new French oak, yet because of the fruit concentration the wood doesn’t seem overdone. Starts off with hints of clove and coffee, then develops blackberry and black cherry fruit wrapped in a cocoon of dried spices. ——W.E.(4/1/2003)—— 92

Not quite as rich or lush as the great 1999 version—a product of the weaker vintage—this is still stunning stuff. Dried spices and blackberries start and finish strong, couched in the plush tannins that are the winery’s hallmark. ——W.E.(4/1/2003)—— 91