Finca Villacreces 'Pruno' Ribera del Duero 2023

Ribera del Duero may not be the place for bargain hunting, but value is another matter entirely and the case for that is made pretty well. Predominantly Tempranillo with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, this has pure dark fruit - blackberry, damson and plum - layered with liquorice, herbs and cedar and twelve months in mainly used French oak add texture and harmony rather than overt oakiness. The result is generous yet balanced, with smooth tannins and a composed finish. A good reflection of Ribera character at a very reasonable price.

Pair it with slow-cooked lamb with rosemary or chorizo-stuffed pork loin, where its deep fruit and spice notes beautifully complement the rich, savoury flavours.

Described by Robert Parker as the hidden jewel of Ribera del Duero, Finca Villacreces sits proudly on the region's renowned 'golden mile', with esteemed neighbours like Vega Sicilia and Pingus. Nestled in Quintanilla de Onésimo, the estate has been run by the Antón family of Izadi since 2003, with winemaker Ángel Ortega crafting wines of depth and focus. Practising integrated viticulture, Finca Villacreces favours natural treatments and canopy management over chemicals, letting the unique mix of sand, gravel, shingle, and quartz soils shine through. The result is low yielding, concentrated, intensely flavoured wines that really standout.