2021 Rippa Dorii, Ribera del Duero, Roble (RT91) Broodingly deep ruby with a blackish tinge, revealing notes of super ripe blackberry liqueur, black currant, dark roast coffee, sweet tobacco and hints of campfire. The palate is soft and pliable, built on ripe fruit, firm acidity and is rather tannic for being a Roble. The oak is balanced here, which is a bit surprising given its 100% new status, but the shorter aging is perhaps responsible for that. Drink now (with O2)-2030+ Tasted April 2025
The Rippa Dorii Roble is 100% Tempranillo, aka Tinta del Pais, and is aged in a combination of 60% French and 40% American oak for 7 months. All of the barrels are new. I found this bottling more approachable and enjoyable than the Crianza, but there little doubt the Crianza is built for longer cellaring and is destined for a higher place should it not be consumed too early in its life.
Rippa Dorii is owned and managed by the Ontañón Family, which is based out of Ribera del Duero. They own selected vineyards in the heart of the Ribera del Duero of the Cuenca de Riaza basin in Burgos province. Their collection of vineyards are planted with Tempranillo and Verdejo, with some plots of old style bush vine plantings. They’re committed to working studiously in the vineyards and dedicated to producing top quality wines. They employ French oak, American oak, Spanish oak and Iberian Pyrenean oak in their quest to produce an unforgettable drink.
