Bodegas Mauro, Finca de la Tierra de Castilla y León (Spain) 2019

 Clearly excellent in all respects, even at this young age and right from when the cork is first pulled, this will nevertheless improve for years to come.  Concentrated pigments offer a visual indication of what is to come, and the bouquet follows right in line, offering notes of ripe fruit that are very nicely balanced against spicy wood aromas.  Impressively concentrated and deeply flavored, this presents itself authoritatively on the palate, and yet is not overbearing in any respect.  Not too ripe, or extracted, or oaky, it wears its power and intensity very gracefully.  Although time in bottle will permit even more seamless integration of fruit and wood while also bringing up additional savory notes, this is an exemplary wine that demonstrates Ribera del Duero’s remarkable ability to conjure up wines that are delicious upon release or in mid-life, but that can also become something quite different and wonderful if held for a decade after the vintage.