The 2011 Aragonez was aged for nine months in an 80-20 mixture (50% new, the rest second and third year) of French and American oak. This is surely one of the most charming mono-varietal Aragonez (also known as Tempranillo or Tinta Roriz in other places) bottlings that the winery has produced. Fresh, bright and well-balanced, it has a sunny demeanor and well-integrated parts. The tannins are ripe, but present. They should support the wine well. This bottling happily adds a layer of depth to the Estate Tinto also reviewed this issue. The acidity then gives it a silky feel, vibrancy and a very juicy finish. It’s pretty tasty, too, and its alcohol is well under control (listed at 14%), always allowing it to seem graceful and retain a bit of subtlety rather than seeming ponderous. It’s a lovely performance this year. It is probably my favorite Aragonez yet from the winery. The only remaining test is how well it evolves in the cellar and how long it stays at peak, but I’m pretty sure this elegant Aragonez will have lots of fans if encountered in the short to mid-term. It’s worth leaning up for the moment. There were just 4,600 bottles produced. Drink now-2022. There is a theme in this issue’s red submissions: they mostly tend to be vying for the “best vintage yet” award for the winery. They are well-priced, too. Importer: Tri-Vin Imports, Mt. Vernon, NY; tel. (914) 664-3155.