Figuero, Ribera del Duero (Spain) Tempranillo 2009

 Figuero’s Vinas Viejas (old vines) tempranillo is a statement wine; the statement being that New World style is alive and kicking in Old World Spain. Bottom line, this is a powerful, rich expression of Tempranillo that may well surprise fans of neighboring Rioja, where elegance and balance are more the fashion. That said, as big wines go, Vinas Viejas from Figuero is a gem, showing ripe black fruits, enticing aromas of baking spice, and plenty of wood aroma from what seems 100 percent new oak.