2010 Dominio de Pingus, Flor Pingus, Ribera del Duero DO 1x750ml

Robert Parker 92

The 2010 Flor de Pingus is raised in 40% to 50% new French oak (Darnajou and Taransaud). It has a superb bouquet that is taut at first, but unfolds beautifully with very pure small dark cherries, cassis, orange blossom and a faint, attractive note of strawberry cheesecake. The palate is medium-bodied with sumptuous, plush tannins counterbalanced by the crisp thread of acidity. It has great clarity and tension with vibrant allspice and white pepper notes towards the finish that closes down a little, suggesting that it will need two or three years in bottle. Excellent. Drink 2015-2025. Available from The Rare Wine Company: $90 per bottle. [Neal Martin, 31/08/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025

Vinous 94

(made from purchased fruit in the La Horra sector of the region and from vines that average more than 35 years of age and yield between 20 and 25 hectoliters per hectare): Vivid purple. Ripe cherry, cassis, potpourri and cracked pepper on the intensely perfumed nose, with subtle licorice and woodsmoke qualities adding complexity. Deep, sweet and expansive, offering explosive dark berry compote, floral pastille and anise flavors. A spicy quality gains strength on the finish, which leaves smoke and mineral notes behind. This bottling has been going from strength to strength in recent years and offers superb value relative to its ritzy Pingus sibling. [Josh Raynolds, 09/01/2012]