López Cristóbal, Tinto Crianza
(TEEN-to kree-AHN-tha)

Tasting Notes: With layers of lush, expensive French oak and aromas of bright currant, aged balsamic, dried rose petals, and crushed granite, this is a very serious Crianza. Clearly, no corners were cut here. It is more reminiscent of many Reservas on the market, unabashed and meant to age. However, the deft French cooperage here means immediate approachability and not too much creaminess; perfect for those who seek out a full-bodied, robust style.

	Castilla y León, España. (Ribera del Duero) 50 hectares.		Mostly clay with limestone.
	López Cristóbal. (LO-peth kreeth-TOH-bahl)		Double Cordon, trained on wires. 3,000 vines/hectare. .5 bottle/plant yield.
	Galo López. (GAH-lo LO-peth)		14 day maceration in temp controlled stainless steel.
	90% Tempranillo, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot.		1st, 2nd, and 3rd passage French and American oak.
	1.4 grams per liter.		12 months in the barrel. 12 months in the bottle.
	4.95 grams per liter.		1,500 cases.
	13.5% by volume.		Marbled rib-eye, mushroom ragu, or roasted lamb.