At a glance

Producer

Bodegas y Viñedos Alión

Region

Ribera del Duero, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$85-$120

Tasting profile

Rich black cherry, cassis, plum with hints of vanilla, tobacco, and toasted oak; strong but integrated tannins.

Evolution: Fruit will deepen and soften, tertiary notes of leather, earth, and spice will emerge with time.

At peak: Complex layered flavors combining mature dark fruit, minerality, well-rounded tannins, and subtle oak.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, balanced for aging

Tannins

Firm, well-structured, fine-grained

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

20+ years under proper cellaring conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2050

Optimal window

2024 to 2053

Current status

Approaching early maturity, still youthful with robust tannins

Current condition

Firm tannic structure with concentrated fruit and evolving complexity

The 2018 vintage in Ribera del Duero is regarded as excellent with optimal climatic conditions producing concentrated fruit and balanced acidity and tannins. This supports a long maturation period, allowing the wine to develop complexity while preserving vibrant fruit flavors through two decades.

Food pairing

Hearty red meat such as lamb, roasted beef, game dishes, aged Manchego or hard cheeses, and grilled mushrooms.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic development before drinking.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Bodegas y Viñedos Alión employs water conservation techniques, energy-efficient winery operations, and uses recycled packaging materials. Vineyards are managed to promote soil health and biodiversity.

The winery demonstrates strong sustainable practices typical for high-end Ribera del Duero producers, focusing on environmental stewardship and resource efficiency though without full organic or biodynamic certification. The wine’s carbon footprint reflects transportation requirements for international markets. Overall, sustainability is well integrated into viticulture and production.