Bright ruby. Expressive aromas of fresh cherry, wild strawberry, redcurrant and minerals, with complicating floral notes and a suggestion exotic tobacco. Tangy and concentrated but crisp, the red fruit flavors showing precision and impressive energy through the long, spicy finish. Elegant and graceful but with real depth and power, too.

The 2004 Valdegatiles is a sure bet. It comes from a single parcel on the estate planted with ungrafted Tempranillo vines over 100 years of age. It is said to be the windiest portion of the estate yielding the most aromatic wines. Purple/black in color, the nose is indeed exceptional with notes of mineral, charcoal, grilled sausage, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. The wine is full-bodied, with layered black fruits, abundant ripe tannins, and a long, pure finish. It needs 4-6 years of further bottle age and should drink well for an additional 15. Kudos to Dominio Atauta!