From a field blend of estate centenary vineyards planted between 1908 and 1948 to mostly Tempranillo, with some Garnacha and Albillo Mayor, the 2023 spent 14 months in new French oak after fermenting in barrel. Medium-bodied, the limestone soils give it acidity and tension, a concentrated framework around which smoky dark fruit, cacao nib, meat, and garrigue build depth and layers of intensity. This is drinking incredibly now but should be beyond amazing for a solid 10-15 years, if not more. A fantastic entry into Francisco Barona’s canon, it’s an inspiring testament to the power of old vines under the right care.

Liquorice and black forest fruit combined with toasty, smoky aromas. Robust fruit concentration, which is very well balanced by the fleshy mid-palate and smooth tannins. Fluid texture, with a long length and persistence of flavour.

The 2023 Francisco Barona blends Tinto Fino with 25% Garnacha, Bobal, Albillo and Jaen. It was aged for 14 months in new French oak. Cherry, sour cherry and black plum open on the nose, with a background of wild herbs. The palate is complex and well knit, showing elegance, the right balance of density and flow and a gentle oak touch. This is a modern Ribera where flavor takes precedence over power, thanks to finely managed tannins. - Joaquín Hidalgo, June 2025