2018 - Penas Aladas Gran Reserva, Dominio Aguila, Ribera del Duero

They didn't produce the 2017 vintage of the single-vineyard wine from some of their oldest vines, so after the 2016 they jumped to the 2018 Peñas Aladas Gran Reserva. It has a very intense nose of licorice, flowers (decayed violets), wet chalk, spices (nutmeg), some nuts (pecan) and a volatile twist with great freshness. It matured in French oak barrels for 53 months. It has a fine thread, a chalky and dry feeling, fine tannins and a dry and very tasty finish that's almost salty. It has all the components and the balance with them to develop nicely in bottle. It should age effortlessly for 30 years. It's very impressive, but it doesn't reach the elegance of the 2016. 1,729 bottles and 42 magnums produced. It was bottled in March 2023.

The 2018 Peñas Aladas Gran Reserva is 95% Tempranillo with other varieties from La Aguilera, Ribera del Duero. It was aged 53 months in mostly French oak barrels. Intense aromas of plum, blackberry, violet, lavender and a hint of volatile acidity enhance expression. The palate is dry, medium-bodied and flavorful, with blackberry and chalky tannins. Compared to the more delicate 2016, this is a richer, more sun-kissed wine with added volume and energy.