96 Points Vinous
The 2021 Vatan Tinta de Toro opens with aromas of violets, lavender, fresh plum and raspberry, framed by subtle oak and a touch of cedar. Intense and creamy, the palate is broad and flavorful, with velvety, finely textured tannins. The finish is long, delivering depth and nuance. This is a balanced and elegant Tempranillo with a measured profile. Tannins show gentle grip, bringing tension that complements the wine’s volume and richness. A superb vintage that lends this wine exceptional depth.
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck
The 2021 Vatan is from a region of rustic wineries that has since come into its own due to the tremendous potential of the old, ungrafted vineyards, like Finca los Quemados, the source here, planted in 1900 on original rootstock. This full-bodied wine is concentrated in dark berry fruit, black licorice, and a lightness of baking spice and cedar, the sultry layers surrounded by sweet, velvety tannins.
92 Points Wine Spectator
Fragrant on the nose, with violet and rooibos tea notes. The palate offers a pure beam of cassis and black raspberry fruit, with rich flavors of espresso, milled pepper and smoked paprika. A well-tailored version, integrating sculpted, limber tannins and a mineral-laced underpinning that echoes on the finish. Drink now through 2036.
92 Points James Suckling
Violets, roasted spices, Sprite and lush blackberries. Quite rich and full-bodied with svelte tannins that manage to grow. There is a generous, almost glycerol-like sweetness to the palate, giving it a round mouthfeel. Long and dusty in the finish.
Winemaker Note
The Ordóñez family produces Vatan Tinta de Toro from estate vineyards of 125 year old ungrafted Tempranillo – the wine displays rich aromas of ripe red fruit, bittersweet dark chocolate, graphite, and mineral.
