Áster 2022

Áster is a Tempranillo, here labelled by its local name Tinta del País, from D.O. Ribera del Duero, made by the Áster winery within the La Rioja Alta group. The fruit comes from the Fuentecojo and El Caño plots at around 780 metres, sites chosen on the advice of local growers near the winery. At this altitude the wide diurnal range between warm days and cold nights slows ripening and preserves acidity and colour, the basis of Ribera del Duero's depth and structure. The 2022 spends sixteen months in oak, which rounds the tannins and adds spice and a balsamic lift through slow oxygen exchange across the barrel. The wine is deep ruby, with a nose of black forest fruits, blueberry and ripe blackberry against balsamic and spicy notes. The palate is full and balanced, powerful without heaviness, with dark fruit, pepper, liquorice and a firm, savoury tannic frame. The finish is long and earthy. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant ahead. It suits roast and grilled red meats, game and mushroom dishes.