2012 Epoch Tempranillo

Glass-staining ruby. Suave, expansive aromas of cherry compote, black raspberry and pipe tobacco are lifted by a peppery element. Sweet and lithe on the palate, offering sappy red fruit and floral pastille flavors sharpened by zesty spice and mineral notes. Closes silky and long, with no rough edges and gentle tannins building stealthily. This elegant wine channels Rioja, not Ribera del Duero.

Rose petal, sweet plums, spices and dark red stone fruits are all laced together in the 2012 Tempranillo. In tis vintage, the firm Tempranillo tannins have largely been tamed, which gives the wine much of its early and medium-term appeal. There isn't a whole lot of varietal character, but the 2012 is very pretty if taken on its own terms. In 2012, the blend is 94% Tempranillo and 6% Grenache.