Vatán 2013

"I also tasted the just-bottled 2013 Vatan, from a completely different vintage that despite the cooler growing season, achieved 2% more alcohol than the 2012 (this is 16% and remained with 3.5 grams unfermented sugar). The wine is ripe and hedonistic, juicier and fresher than the 2012, and despite having more alcohol it feels much more balanced. It is still a baby with plenty of puppy fat to be rendered by the time in bottle. There are some lactic aromas, ripe black berry fruit and integrated oak scents; it has plenty of spices and some underbrush hints. The palate is full-bodied with glossy tannins; it is juicy, chewy and nicely balanced within its XXL size. The velvety tannins make it approachable now, but it should develop more complexity in bottle, and for sure it should have a long life ahead. It is a nice representation of a powerful Toro style, and at this quality level, the price is quite good. 16,000 bottles."