2018 Alion Ribera del Duero Red Wine – JS96 WA95 WS92 Rated

Alion 2018 Ribera del Duero Tempranillo: A Masterpiece of Spanish Winemaking

Hailing from Spain’s renowned Ribera del Duero region, Bodegas y Vinedos’ Alion 2018 is a bold Tempranillo that showcases the area’s rich terroir and meticulous craftsmanship. This exceptional vintage earned 96 points from James Suckling for its layered complexity of dark berries, chocolate, and savory dried meats, complemented by hints of cedar and a velvety texture that lingers on the palate.

Crafted with precision, Alion 2018 balances power and elegance. Aged in French oak barrels (with 80% new wood) and concrete vats, it achieves a refined profile with ripe black fruit flavors and floral aromas. Critics praise its freshness and structure—thanks to innovative techniques like reduced oak dominance—resulting in polished tannins and vibrant acidity. At 15% alcohol, it delivers depth without heaviness, offering notes of cherry, espresso, and earthy herbs that evolve gracefully over time.

Winemaker insights highlight the wine’s purity of fruit and terroir expression, drawn from vineyards in Pesquera del Duero, Padilla, and Valbuena. This contemporary Ribera del Duero blend combines spice-driven richness with remarkable length, making it ideal for collectors or those seeking a cellar-worthy gem.

Pair this full-bodied red with hearty dishes like roasted lamb or aged cheeses. While approachable now, its true potential emerges after 2022, offering drinking enjoyment through 2031. With limited production (over 258k bottles), Alion 2018 stands out as a benchmark for premium Tempranillo—perfect for special occasions or long-term aging.

Alcohol: 15% | Vintage may vary; availability subject to store inventory.