Bodegas Balbás Ritus-940 2019

At 940 metres' altitude, our La Malata estate crowns the Ribera del Duero, making it the perfect enclave for grapes of exceptional quality. Extreme weather and poor, stony soils give this wine its visual power and unique aromas.

This wine comes from our La Malata estate, at over 940 m, one of the highest in the appellation. The grapes behind Ritus are 75% Tempranillo and 25% Merlot, all bush-trained on poor, stony soils and harvested by hand. The Ritus grapes are always the last to arrive at the winery, guaranteeing optimal ripeness, and they ferment in 10,000 kg tanks without added yeast. Maceration can last up to twenty days.

Tasting Notes: A cherry-red wine, high-rimmed and of medium density. On the nose it's delicate and fresh, with a first impression of red fruit. Predominant notes of spice such as cinnamon and toasty ageing that recall cedar, vanilla pods and autumn leaves. On the palate we find very elegant, well-crafted oak. It's fresh and long, with very integrated acidity; the tannin is starting to polish, making it delicious and elegant. It has great ageing potential.

Decanter: A charming wine with everything you'd expect from a red like this. The palate is structured, with soft tannins, evident oak and a fruity mouthfeel. Fabulous.

James Suckling: Aromas of dark fruit, flowers and pastry spice. Medium to full-bodied, with fine, velvety tannins. Textured and layered, with dark cherry notes on the savoury finish, which recalls blueberries. Drink now or keep.