Aalto PS 2023

Aalto PS is the top selection from Bodegas Aalto in D.O. Ribera del Duero, made from Tinto Fino sourced from the finest old-vine plots, with vines between 60 and 100 years of age. The harvest is carried out by hand in the cool hours of least sunlight, with the grapes transported in small 15-kilogram boxes to preserve freshness, then sorted a second time at the winery. Old vines on the stony limestone and clay soils of the high Duero plateau yield small, concentrated berries, while the wide diurnal range holds acidity and aromatic detail in a hot continental climate. The wine is aged for 20 months in French Allier oak barrels, a long pass whose tight-grained staves give slow, measured oxygen exchange that polishes the tannins and layers in vanilla, spice and toast in support of the fruit. It is deep and intense, with a nose of ripe black fruit, liquorice and fine spice. The palate is full bodied and structured, with concentrated dark fruit and firm, ripe tannins running to a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted well ahead. It suits roast and grilled red meats and game.