Astrales 2009 75cl

The 2009 Astrales is sourced from various plots around Ribera del Duero, aged in around 30% new oak, of which a majority is French. It has a fresh, well-defined bouquet with scents of blackberry, raspberry preserve, a hint of crushed violet and crushed stone. The palate is very harmonious with fine minerality on the entry. There is roundness to the wine, but there is still great tension and delineation on the focused, almost razor-ship finish. This is excellent (even if the 2010 might turn out better given the quality of barrel samples). Drink 2014-2020+. Bodegas Los Astrales made their debut in 2001, but already they are producing very commendable Ribera del Duero wines. Their estate consists of 28 hectares, although only 18 hectares are under vine. Technical director Eduardo Garcia, who works alongside his brother Alberto, is the son of Mariano at Aalto. He trained at Cos d’Estournel and in Burgundy chez Hubert Lignier. He prosaically told me that he likes to produce wines that he likes to drink, which is the best attitude to have in my book. The challenge of the 2009 vintage was a slow malolactic fermentation, but they seem to have overcome that problem without too much difficulty judging by this pair of commendable wines.

Plum and blackberry flavors are supported by toasty cocoa notes in this plush red. This shows firm tannins, lively acidity and a sweet, fresh finish. Drink now through 2016. 2,500 cases made. –TM