Bohórquez Reserva 2009

This boutique estate sits at a lofty 900m, next door to Pesquera, one of the region’s most famous names. It has a beguiling cherry liqueur-like nose and a seductively smooth palate of dark berries, blood plums and meaty, earthy tones plus menthol, cedar and cigar box spice from 14 months in French and American oak. Elegant, stylish and drinking beautifully now at a decade old, but can age a few more years yet. A real find!

Javier Bohórquez makes his ageworthy cuvée with Tempranillo, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Merlot. Surprisingly, given the heat of the 2009 vintage, this is slightly fresher than the equally impressive 2010, reviewed below. Mature, savoury and leafy with classic Ribera acidity and a winning combination of French and American oak. 2019-25