At a glance

Producer

Abadía Retuerta

Region

Ribera del Duero, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah ( Bordeaux-style blend )

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$60

Tasting profile

Black cherry, blackberry, licorice, vanilla oak with hints of leather and spice

Evolution: Fruit will integrate with tertiary notes of tobacco, forest floor, and earthy minerals over 5-10 years

At peak: Complex layered nose, smooth tannins, balanced acidity and lingering finish

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, moderate

Tannins

Ripe, firm, well-integrated

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

15+ years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2023 to 2033

Current status

Approaching optimal drinkability with good ageing potential

Current condition

Fresh fruit notes present with developing tertiary complexity

2018 was a very good vintage for Ribera del Duero producing structured wines with ripe tannins and good acidity, allowing long ageing. The blend’s balance of fruit, oak, and freshness supports a peak window starting ~5 years from vintage and extending 10+ years.

Food pairing

Ideal with grilled red meats, game, hearty stews, aged cheeses, and dishes with rosemary or thyme.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften firm tannins and open aromatic complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water-efficient irrigation, solar energy use at winery, eco-friendly packaging

Abadía Retuerta employs modern sustainable viticultural practices focused on reducing environmental impact through resource conservation and renewable energy. While lacking organic certification, the winery is committed to sustainable farming which reduces runoff and preserves biodiversity. Their moderate carbon footprint is offset by transportation efficiencies and packaging innovations.