Wine Review: 2009 Condado de Haza Tinto Ribera del Duero

Alejandro Fernandez is a powerful icon in the wine world and is considered to be one of the top Spanish winemakers. His wines receive the highest accolades from critics around the world. I like to think of him as a magical, mystical wizard of Ribera del Duero. He battles extreme conditions and a short growing season to produce exceptionally balanced, age-worthy Tempranillo (locally known as Tinto Fino or Tinta del Pais). How does he do it? I'd like to think it's magic but I am sure there is a little more to it. After enjoying a few of Alejandro's wines it is no surprise to find they set the benchmark of quality for all other wines in Ribera del Duero. Last week I was pleased to discover we received a limited shipment of 2009 Contado de Haza. I was impressed by its refined, yet powerful presence. 2009 Contado de Haza is an expressive, plush wine with ripe cherry and strawberry flavors. A little over a year spent in American French Oak lends a bit body while silky smooth tannins lead to a lasting finish. 2009 Contado de Haza is a wine that will withstand the passage of time. You can enjoy it now or lay it down for a few years to see how it develops. Either way, this bottle is at the top of Ancona's list for "Must-Have-Cellar-Worthy Reds". This week we added 2009 Contado de Haza to our pallet sale - the more you buy, the more you save. Purchase a few bottles to enjoy now and a few to save for later. Stock up and receive 6% off 6 bottles, 12% off 12 bottles, or 20% off 24 bottles. 91 Points Stephen Tanzer's I.W.C. - "Dark ruby. Explosive aromas of dark berry and cherry preserves, with smoke, game and violet accents. Plush and expansive, offering spicy cherry and cassis flavors and notes of candied flowers and bitter chocolate. Vanilla and cracked pepper build with air and carry through a long, sappy and gently tannic finish. Incidentally, the 2008 bottling of this wine is drinking very well right now, with plenty of juicy dark berry character and brightening minerality; no rush to drink it but no crime to do so now, either." ~(Stephen Tanzer)

Ancona's Bottle Price: $24.99

The addition of this wine to our pallet was a no brainer. Enjoy 6% off 6 bottles, 12% off 12 bottles, or 20% off 24 bottles. Mix and match with these other great wines to receive the pallet discount.