R. López de Heredia Crianza Viña Cubillo 2018

The 2018 Cubillo (70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 5% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo) runs darker than López de Heredia's typical expression, black cherry and bramble upfront where you might expect lighter red fruit. Cedar, sandalwood and vanilla thread through dried herbs and pine resin on the nose, the house's traditional fingerprint intact. Chalky and firm across the mid-palate, with lively acidity and a light but purposeful grip that carries through to a long, savory finish. Serious bones here. Drink now or give it another few years to open.