At a glance

Producer

Bodegas Conde de Siruela

Region

Ribera del Duero, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo (Tinta del País)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$18-30 (USD, secondary market, as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Soft red and dark fruit, hints of dried cherry, leather, cedar, savory spice, moderate oak, resolved tannins.

Evolution: Receding fruit, increased tertiary/umami notes, subtle earth and tobacco.

At peak: Showed best with bright fruit and vibrant structure 2015-2018; tertiary/complex but fading character now.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Integrated, softening, moderate

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

Originally suited for 8-12 years from vintage; now at full maturity, declining beyond 2025.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2015 to 2018

Optimal window

2013 to 2020

Current status

At or just past optimal maturity; well-stored bottles still viable, but peak has passed.

Current condition

Well-cellared bottles show soft tannins, integrated oak, fading fruit, some tertiary notes (leather, tobacco). Should be consumed soon.

Crianza-level Ribera del Duero typically peaks 7-10 years after vintage, depending on storage and vintage. 2008 was a moderate aging year, making current bottles appealing for those who appreciate aged Tempranillo but definitely on the downslope for lively fruit. Best to drink soon.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb chops, roast pork, mushroom ragu, Spanish meats/cheeses (manchego, chorizo), rustic stews.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 5/10

Traditional viticulture; some hand-harvesting, but not known for special energy/water-saving initiatives or eco-packaging at this vintage.

Bodegas Conde de Siruela is a typical mid-sized Ribera del Duero producer. As of 2008, neither estate nor region was notable for certified organic/sustainable initiatives. Standard vineyard practices, but no reported innovations in water/energy efficiency or reduction of packaging/waste/carbon. Later vintages or newer releases may show progress, but this vintage rates as average for its time and appellation. Opting for regional consumption (in Spain/Europe) lowers the footprint, while oversea shipping elevates it.