2012 Charles Smith Wines K Vintners Tempranillo El Jefe Stoneridge Vineyard
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
(from vines planted at 1,100 feet): Deep ruby-red. Dark cherry, licorice and minerals on the nose. Sweet, plush and lightly saline, conveying lovely focus to its dark berry flavors. Finishes classically dry and rather backward, with substantial tannins buffered by the wine's fruit. This vibrant Tempranillo should age well.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
A grape that continues to impress, Smith's 2012 El Jefe Tempranillo Stoneridge Vineyard saw one of the higher percentages of new oak, spending 23 months in 40% new French oak. It gives up classic Tempranillo notes of kirsch and blackberry fruits, vanilla, saucisson and spice to go with a mouth-filling, layered, nicely concentrated profile on the palate. The tannin clamp down on the finish, so give it another year or two in the cellar.