Teso la Monja Almirez 2012

Professional Ratings

• 93 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  The 2012 Almirez (a 1,000-case cuvée of 100% Tinta de Toro) was aged 14 months in French oak. This sensational wine comes from vines planted between 1949 and 1999. Yields were a conservative 1.8 tons of fruit per acre. An inky/purple color is followed by aromas of camphor, ground pepper, blackberries and cassis. This full-bodied, Northern Rhône Valley-like Spanish red exhibits meaty/lard notes, terrific density and purity, and a finish that lasts nearly 40 seconds. It should drink nicely for a decade or more.
• 91 Wine Enthusiast
  Brawny aromas of asphalt, roofing tar and rubber are balanced by smooth, deep blackberry and cassis scents. This is tannic and rugged, but the palate also offers buttery, oaky richness and depth. Heavily toasted plum and blackberry flavors finish with heat and a taste of dark chocolate.
• 90 Wine Spectator
  A polished texture conceals the solid structure in this muscular red, which offers currant and blackberry flavors that show notes of espresso and tar. Gamy and savory accents lend this an austere character, but fresh acidity maintains liveliness. Best from 2016 through 2024.