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The 2009 Ines Vizcarra comes from 55-year-old Tinto Fino vines and 20-year-old Merlot (10% of the blend), then aged on new 400-liter barrels, mainly French. It has an understated bouquet with strawberry preserve, a touch of raspberry and orange zest that is well-defined. The palate is balanced with succulent, ripe raspberry and wild strawberry fruit that leads to an elegant but edgy finish. The Merlot works really well here, complementing and bringing out the best in the Tempranillo. Drink now-2017. The estate was founded in 1991 by Juan Carlos Vizcarra Ramos, whose father was a pioneer in planting vines in Ribera del Duero. They exploit 35 hectares of mainly bush vines of Tino Fino accompanied by one hectare of Merlot and a smattering of other varieties that are intended to give their wines their own unique personalities. In 2007 they completed the construction of a gravity-fed winery. The three wines that I tasted are all very good, though to be honest, their price tags left me smarting. Importer: Ole Imports, New Rochelle, NY; www.oleimports.com
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Average Score
Josh Raynolds
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
(90% tempranillo and 10% merlot, aged in large French and American oak casks): Bright purple. Intensely perfumed aromas of red and black fruits, with smoky mineral and potpourri qualities adding complexity. Nervy cherry and blackberry flavors are underscored by a cool mineral quality and complemented by a deeper note of bitter chocolate. Turns spicier on the clinging finish, which leaves floral and cherry notes behind.