Aalto PS 2021

The 2021 PS has a similar profile as the regular Aalto but with a little bit more of everything, more ripeness—playing dangerously with overripeness—and alcohol (15%), more concentration and power and also more oak that reveals itself in the shape or aromas of fried corn. It's powerful and tannic, in need of years in bottle and/or powerful food. This is very good in its style, impeccably crafted and aged in the best barrels money can buy. 35,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in September 2023.

PS, short for Pagos Seleccionados or selected parcels, only uses fruit from the famous Burgos villages of La Aguilera and La Horra. As such, it tends to be the more concentrated of the two Aalto reds, displaying considerable structure and staying power. Curated in new French barrels, it's plush, glossy and sweetly perfumed, with top notes of vanilla and clove spice, nuances of wild herbs, grippy tannins and damson and blackberry intensity. 2025-35

Deep violet in the glass, this wine has a nose of cassis, mocha and cedar chest. A framework of sturdy tannins supports flavors of black cherry, purple plum, dark chocolate, lavender, baking spices and a touch of olive paste, while well-integrated acidity leaves a lasting impression in the mouth. Drink Through 2036.