Bodegas Valduero Ribera del Duero Gran Reserva 2001

WA95: The 2001 Gran Reserva, from another superb vintage, is still youthful in appearance. Sandalwood, graphite, espresso, roasted herbs, violets, and blackberry aromas lead to a mouth filling, spicy, plush offering that manages to combine elegance and power. Give it another 8-10 years and drink this monumental effort through 2031.

VM93: Full red. Complex, aromatic bouquet of dried cherry, blackcurrant, sandalwood, potpourri and pungent herbs. Sappy, concentrated red and dark berry flavors stain the palate, with notes of allspice, candied rose and cracked pepper contributing lift. Becomes sweeter and more velvety with air and finishes with impressive length. This is drinking extremely well now but has the depth to continue aging.