Aster Crianza

Tempranillo from a single site, 15 months in barrique, clearly defined character: The Áster Crianza shows what Ribera del Duero can do when origin and craftsmanship match.

La Rioja Alta is actually a fixed size in Rioja – but with the Áster, the family took the step to Ribera del Duero at the beginning of the 1990s. The grapes come exclusively from the Finca el Otero, a single vineyard with old Tinta del País vines (the local name for Tempranillo). It is aged for 15 months in French barriques – an approach that gives the wine structure without overpowering the fruit.

In the glass, intense cherry red. On the nose, blackberry and dark plum, plus fine roasted aromas of toffee and caramel. On the palate, full-bodied, the tannins are well-integrated and give grip without hardness. The finish is warm and persistent.

• Food: Lamb shank with herbs, Ibérico roast pork, aged Manchego
• Temperature: 16–18 °C