2014 Hacienda Monasterio, Reserva Especial, Ribera del Duero, Spain

As decadent and brooding a Reserva Especial as I can recall for some time.  Impenetrably deep and inky, the nose is similarly dense with stewed black plums, liquorice and fig compote. At this infantile point there’s also a lot of luxurious creamy oak with desiccated coconut, some blanched almonds and exotic spices; polish and poise are the watchwords here. Tart red fruits are present to balance the cherry chocolate flavours on the palate, which are delivered on a soft and indulgent texture. A wine of utter class and sophistication to be broached with similar aplomb. Drink 20222035+.