The 2011 Llanos del Almendro is a single-vineyard Tempranillo and while the nose is very showy, and has notes of black fruit and spices, the palate feels a little too extracted with harsh, chunky, rustic tannins that detract from the overall picture of pleasure. Sadly, this 2011 doesn’t seem to be at the same level as past vintages from this plot. Drink 2015-2021. Dominio de Atauta is in the coolest place in Ribera, in Atauta in the province of Soria. The winery was acquired by the Avantselecta group in 2009 and since then there have been a number of changes, including the winemaker. Imported by Aviva Vinos, New York, NY; tel. (212) 244-4495, www.avivavino.com

Expressive and elegant, this modern red delivers ripe plum and blackberry flavors along with mineral and loamy notes that add depth and balance. The tannins and acidity are well-integrated in the seamless texture. Drink now through 2021. 25 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Ribera del Duero Select to Add

Vivid ruby. Powerful blackberry, floral pastille and mineral scents, with an exotic Indian spice accent that gains strength in the glass. Sweet and concentrated yet lively as well, offering intense dark berry and cherry flavors and a sexy flourish of cinnamon. Shows superb clarity and power on the wonderfully long, gently tannic finish, which leaves floral and dark berry preserve notes behind. Showing a darker fruit character than its 2012 sibling but no less animated.