2016 Fournier Crianza ($30)

This Fournier Crianza is from Ribera del Duero in Spain. It is produced from 100% Tinta del País grapes which are more commonly known as Tempranillo.

The grapes come from the terraced sides of the Duero River which winds through more than two kilometers along the edge of their property.

Their Tempranillo vines average being more than 25 years old with some plots being more than 60 years old.

The “Crianza” designation means that a wine must be aged at least for one year in oak and spend one year in the bottle before being sold. This Fournier Crianza was aged in 80% French oak and 20% American oak barrels.

The Fournier Crianza is medium ruby in color. It has black cherry, black fruits and spice on the nose. On the palate it is full-bodied with firm tannin. After decanting for a couple of hours the tannins softened a bit revealing its more delicate flavors and a hint of tartness on the finish.

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Rebekah Polster, Donna White Communications