Áster Crianza 2019 Bottle size: 750ml

‘Bodegas Áster Crianza 2019 ster is the relatively new Ribera del Duero property of La Rioja Alta. They purchased land and planted vines in 1991, but did not produce any wines themselves until the 2001 vintage, after the tempranillo vines were ten years of age. Their 2019 Tinto Crianza comes in at 14.5 percent octane and was raised for just under two years in casks, with the wood being a fifty-fifty split of French and American oak. The 2019 version offers up a youthful and refined bouquet of plums, black cherries, cigar smoke, clove-like spice tones, a good foundation of soil and a generous serving of cedary oak. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied and nascently complex, with lovely depth of black fruit, good soil undertow and grip, ripe, well-integrated tannins and a beautifully balanced, long, and focused finish. This is going to be simply outstanding wine once it is ready to drink.’ – John Gilman, View From The Cellar, 93+/100

‘We're looking for less wood and more freshness in the wine, says Alejandro Lpez of this perfumed, nicely weighted Crianza from three parcels around the bodega. Youthful bright and alluring, with deftly integrated 75% new wood, some stony reduction, notes of mint, raspberry and black cherry and sculpted tannins.’ – Tim Atkin MW, 93/100

‘A toasty edge of smoke, mocha and vanilla accents the pureed cherry and baked plum fruit flavors in this harmonious red. There’s a zesty, spice-laden underpinning, with fine, taut tannins wrapped in a creamy texture and a fresh note of loamy earth lingering on the finish. Drink now through 2028.’ – Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator, 91/100

‘Intense crimson colour with dark red rim and bright robe. Forest floor and black fruit notes stand out on the nose: blackcurrant, blackberry and blueberry jam wrapped with mocha, confectionery and spices such as black pepper, liquorice and clove on the background. Balanced, vibrant and fresh mouthfeel, with the characteristic fine, gentle tannins of these Ribera del Duero wines. The aftertaste is fresh and sinewy, nicely rounded with a very pleasant finish. An elegant wine, with outstanding balance and excellent ageing potential.’ – Winemaker