Francisco Barona - Finca las Dueñas Reserva 2021

After a rigorous sorting of the grapes, the bunches are destemmed but not crushed. The grapes are transferred by gravity to open top stainless steel vats where fermentation begins spontaneously without inoculation. Maceration is very gentle and manual punchdowns are carried out once per day during the maceration to limit over-extraction of the concentrated fruit. Malolactic fermentation in new French barrique. 20 months in new French barrique, followed by 20 months in bottle.

"From a 1928-planted field blend near Anguix in calcareous soils, the 2021 Finca las Duenas Reserva pays homage to the past, combining a core of Tempranillo with natural percentages of Bobal and Albillo Mayor. Dusty tannins ride along a sultry layering of spicy red fruit and floral aromatics, the medium-bodied palate powerful yet elegant. Given 17 months in new French oak, it spent another two years in bottle. This is a deeply beautiful and beguiling wine that will continue to age with grace 20-30 years. These are among the best wines of the appellation.” - 99 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

“The 2021 Finca las Dueñas Tinto Fino includes 25% Bobal and Albillo from Ribera del Duero. It is fermented entirely with whole clusters and was aged 20 months in new French oak. Expressive aromas of cherry, red fruit, plum, blackberry and a touch of pine emerge on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied and juicy, with a chalky texture that supports a long, fine-grained finish. Delicate and composed, this wine has come together quickly in bottle and will age beautifully, aided by the moderate vintage.” - 94 Points, Vinous