Bodegas Emina, Ribera del Duero ‘Pasion’ 2009, Spain
Ribera del Duero in the north of Spain has become one of the country’s most sought-after wine regions in recent decades thanks to estates like Vega Sicilia and Pesquera. This is 100% Tempranillo, aged for six months in barrique and although a bit of a blockbuster, it is a wine with structure and freshness. It has cedar and smokiness on the nose – tobacco and cigar smoke – and plenty of cassis-like black fruit. On the palate a hint of something more gamy, but deliciously juicy stuff. The chocolate and toast of the oak is there, as is the alcohol (14% ABV), but there’s a cherry freshness that makes this a wine that invites a second sip, and indeed a second glass. It’s concentrated and structured enough to suggest some cellaring potential too. Watch the video for more details and food-matching suggestions. 12.99, Ocado.
