Ribera del Duero, 2017
The 2021 Aalto is the product of a vibrant vintage which started cold and late. Heatspikes through the summer, as is typical in the region, were broken by rains in September which gave the grapes an extra kick of energy and vitality. Full bodied with notes of violet, red fruits and blackcurrant, supported by toasty notes and rich, velvety tannins, it finishes fresh and attractive. Produced from vines averaging 40-80 years old, from villages up and down the valley. Raised in French and American oak barrels for 17 months.
critic reviews
Opaque ruby. An expressive bouquet evokes ripe red and dark berries, licorice, mocha and woodsmoke, and a spicy note builds in the glass. Juicy and energetic on the palate, offering appealingly sweet blackberry, cherry cola and lavender pastille flavors that are sharpened by a peppery nuance. Smooth tannins come in late on a long, dark-fruit-driven finish, which leaves a subtle touch of vanilla behind.
The 2017 Aalto was a surprise for the vintage. They had to select the grapes from their own vineyards, and they produced less wine. It feels a little lighter and fresher, more approachable at this point in time. The oak also seems to be more integrated. It's a very drinkable Aalto in its style. They only used some 20% new oak and possibly did a softer vinification. It's approachable now, but it should also develop nicely in bottle, as the year had more acidity. 220,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in June 2019.