The 2009 Cosecha is aged 16 months in barrel using 20% new oak. It has a very ripe, glossy bouquet with iodine and blueberry aromas that swarm from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and good acidity with soft, slightly meaty, dark berry fruit. There is still a touch of unresolved oak towards the finish but it demonstrates good weight and length. I would have just liked to see more tension and tautness. Drink now-2017. Bodegas Mauro is owned by Alberto and Eduardo Garcia. Their vineyards are predominantly located on the left bank of the Duero River, although due to historical local politics their sites are excluded from the DO of Ribera del Duero. They have apparently come to terms with that and are, of course, able to work without the restrictions imposed by authorities. They own 55 hectares of vines, mostly Tinto Fino on north facing slopes at 780 meters above sea level. Importer: Christopher Cannan; www.europvin.com

Focused and well-integrated, this polished red offers ripe fruit and toasty oak, with notes of plum, coffee, mineral and smoke. Structured yet lively, showing good depth. Drink now through 2018. 20,000 cases made. –TM