2018 Vivaltus, Ribera del Duero, Spain

The 2018 Vivaltus from Ribera del Duero was aged for up to 12 months in barrels and amphorae. Garnet in color, it opens with mint, thyme and herbs, followed by forest tones and then fruit—black cherry and plum. Dry, silky and textured with delicate chalk, it offers a long, flavorful finish of finesse and elegance. After 18 months in bottle, it has gained greater complexity and nuance.
96/100, Joaquín Hidalgo, Vinous (June 2025)