Áster El Espino 2020
The Áster El Espino is a new, contemporary style of red wine from Ribera del Duero. The Ribera del Duero's classic examples are often intense, powerful, fruity wines; however, there is a new trend emerging within the appellation, seeking to reconcile this style with greater elegance, refinement, subtlety and balance. This is where El Espino stands: a modern-day Ribera that combines punch and elegance, power and finesse, terroir and distinction. Sleek, graceful, seductive. Contemporary and vibrant. The wine is pure Tinta del País blended from three plots - El Espino, Fuentecojo and El Picón - 50% of the grapes underwent malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks and 50% in second- use French oak barrels. The wine was later aged in French oak barrels, 20% of them new, for 12 months, with two manual rackings. After four months in tanks, it was bottled. Medium-deep ruby colour with clean dark red rim. The nose reveals expressive black fruit laced with hints of blueberry, blackberry, red plum, liquorice, cardamom and mineral nuances along with subtle traces of ageing: coffee beans, toffee and bonbon box. The palate is deep and balanced, with remarkable freshness and elegance. It displays a persistent fruity aftertaste. An ample and succulent wine, which is an outstanding example of contemporary Ribera del Duero, at the optimum moment to enjoy it.
