The 2009 Cantos de Valpiedra is a pure Tempranillo that is fermented in stainless steel and undergoes a 5-day skin maceration before aging in French and American oak barriques. It offers vivacious an exotic bouquet of strawberry sorbet and orange zest that retains fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with a fleshy, silky smooth texture.

“This focused, crisp Tempranillo from a nice, warm vintage offers a mix of fresh plum, raspberry, vanilla and spice on the bouquet. It’s honest and correct in the mouth, with plum, cherry, dry spice and light oak flavors. A clean, mellow finish is an appropriate ending for this midtier Rioja.”