Ribera Del Duero, the home of Spain’s famous Vega Sicilia Winery, has only recently become a reliable wine region.  But even though it’s fame is recent, the wines from Ribera del Duero aren’t cheap, and as such, the remote, and inhospitable Spanish wine region has remained less than well-known in the US.  The wines are made from mostly Tinto Fino, also called Tinto del Pais, which is a local variant of the Tempranillo grape that has become especially suited to Ribera del Duero’s harsh climate.

Bodegas Martín Berdugo is a  family-owned winery that is committed to making modern-styled, reasonably priced wines.  They are also very good at it.  The winery is located near Aranda del Deuro, on the banks of the Arandilla river.  From 87 hectares of vines, the winery makes exceptional 100% Tempranillo Ribera del Dueros (the appellation allows Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec as well).

This wine is powerful and oaky, showing sweet red plum fruit framed by cocao, spice and coconut from American Oak and powerful tannins.  Try it with lamb, barbecue beef ribs, blue cheese, and just about anything hearty.  Drink now – 2014