Valderiz 2018
A new benchmark wine in Ribera del Duero?
Ribera del Duero has already many star wines that shine all over the place, unfortunately many of them are now terribly expensive too! Great names are now fetching high prices, and recently it has been difficult to find fairly priced Ribera del Duero that would offer a serious wine.
Bodegas y Viñedos Valderiz has done some enormous efforts in the past 10 years. Obviously, in the vineyard and in the cellar, but also more importantly they (Juan and Ricardo) have been tasting a lot of different wines. Wines from different climates, countries, grapes varieties, etc…. Leading them to a better understanding of what they wanted to achieve with their own wine!
As a result, Valderiz, their flagship wine, (although not the top cuvée from the estate) has gone through some significant changes, for better of course!. Vintage after vintage the wine has gained in complexity, deepness but also the tannins are a lot more approachable/gentle. The oak treatment is present without dominating the fruit. Now, it seems that Valderiz is complete! Full-bodied as one would expect from a Ribera del Duero, but also offering layers of aromatic complexity. The wine is persistent, savory, and the finish is long. And even though it is terrific to drink right now, it would age easily another 10 years.
Such a tremendous wine for just 20 euros a bottle is a bargain! We highly recommend anyone to acquire a few bottles.
They are just amazing!
Wine Spectator
2018 : 95Pts
2017 : 94 Pts
2016 : 96 Pts
2015 : 94 Pts
