Flor de Pingus, Ribero del Duero, 2010

(made from purchased fruit in the La Horra sector of the region and from vines that average more than 35 years of age and yield between 20 and 25 hectoliters per hectare): Vivid purple. Ripe cherry, cassis, potpourri and cracked pepper on the intensely perfumed nose, with subtle licorice and woodsmoke qualities adding complexity. Deep, sweet and expansive, offering explosive dark berry compote, floral pastille and anise flavors. A spicy quality gains strength on the finish, which leaves smoke and mineral notes behind. This bottling has been going from strength to strength in recent years and offers superb value relative to its ritzy Pingus sibling.