In the 1990s, La Rioja Alta decided to try their luck in the Ribera del Duero, where terroir and microclimate meet to invite the utmost expression of the Tempranillo grape. They sought the best possible site following the advice of the Denomination’s best growers and different academic experts. Also, La Rioja Alta studied and analysed the soil, grapes and weather of many different subzones. Anguix (Burgos) was finally selected as the ideal location and in 1991 they planted the vineyard on land that was purchased the previous year. They chose to name this new venture Bodegas Aster after a Spanish flower that blooms at harvest.
The grapes from the first seven harvests were sold. In 2000, having verified the quality of the vineyard and the grapes, a winery was built representing a perfect combination of cutting-edge wine-making technology and timeless elegance in design. That year saw the creation of the first Áster offering.
Intense ruby color of high layer with garnet edge, clean and shiny. Intense nose that, from the beginning, transmits complexity, penetrating, with aromas of black fruits, blueberries and currants, undergrowth, roasted memories, toffee, coffee powder, liquorice, cloves, vanilla and lebanese cedar. Mouth with freshness and balance, with tannins ripe and creamy, which highlight its elegance, with a step harmonious and intense. Long and pleasant aftertaste, with a great variety of balsamic and spicy memories.
Review:
The old-vine component of the El Otero parcel, running to around seven hectares, supplies the fruit for this ageworthy Tinto Fino. After a frost-induced break in 2017, it's back with interest in 2018. Aged in new French oak, but not dominated by the wood, it's a finely judged red from Julio Sáenz with notes of blackberry and tangerine, filigree tannins and a long, textured finish. 2023-33
-Tim Atkin 96 Points
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This signature wine contains only fruit farmed on Howell Mountain. The wine comes in a distinctive bottle that is hand dipped in red wax. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. aged 32 months in 100% new French oak.
Vinous 97 Points
Corne Loup Lirac Rouge is made from 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre
Dry - less than 4 grams/liter
Color: dark red ruby.
Aromas: red berries, truffles and spices.
Flavors: complex and rich. It shows red and black fruits, with an herbal spice type of aromas coming from the surrounding vegetation (Garrigue).
The average age of the vines is 40 years. (The oldest vines are 80 years old).
The soil is mainly sandy marl and small pebble stones.
Pairs with lamb, duck, turkey, red meat, game and cheese.