Vivaltus,

Needs time to open up, as even at five years old it has muscles and well-framed fruits, but it is so worth the wait of a few hours in a carafe. Fragrant raspberry leaf, sandalwood, tobacco, pencil lead, juicy black cherry, blood orange, melted tannins, all with finesse and complexity. The wine is made from old vines, up to 90 year (almost entirely) Tempranillo sat at between 750m and 1000m altitude, from a selection of their own vines, and those of local growers. This is the first vintage on the Place, and a new project, and it's standout. 25% new oak, Jean-Claude and Jeff Berrouet are consultants, working along with winemaker Montxo Martinez and owners Marcos and Carlos Yllera.

The 2016 Vivaltus is the first vintage of this 100% Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero, made with the assistance of Bordeaux winemaker Jean-Claude Berrouet, a noteworthy collaboration. Garnet-red in hue. Undergrowth, plum and blueberry hints, wrapped in a cedar frame, complement mint and menthol aromas. The dry, juicy palate shows finely-grained tannins and a polished texture that precedes an alluring, long-lasting, balsamic finish. This is a nuanced Ribera wine made in an elegant style.