Alabaster 2017

I tasted the 2017 Alabaster next to the 2016, two wines from the same plots and same vinification and aging in very different years. This 2017 is not heady and ripe, as would correspond with a warm, dry and very early harvest. It should also be understandably oaky after 18 months in brand-new French oak barrels. Surprisingly enough, it's terribly aromatic, expressive and floral, jumping out of the glass, with an extrovert personality, with a lactic touch and some notes of licorice, with better-integrated oak and more freshness than the 2016. The oak is less evident (they have changed the toast of the barrels, but they still use 100% new oak) and more integrated. This is still a modern and generously oaked Tempranillo, but in the overall context, it's the least oaky of all their wines I tasted this time. 4,000 bottles.

A rich Toro, but not overpowering, with a line of fine tannins and freshness running through the center palate. Lots of chocolate and wood character. Flavorful at the end. Drink now.