Tinto Figuero 4 2006

The Tinto Figuero 4 wine was produced by Vinedos y Bodegas Garcia Figuero, a small family owned and operated winery that was started in 2001 in the Ribera del Duero region of Spain. The Tinto Figuero is made from 100% tempranillo grapes harvested from 10-20 year old vines and then aged in new oak barrels (85% American 15% French oak) for only 4 months, hence the 4. It has a nice dark red color with strawberry and cherry aromas but more of a blackberry taste. It had a relatively long finish to it with smooth tannins. My wife's sister and brother-in-law in Switzerland served this with a fondue chinoise (thinly sliced beef, pork and veal dipped into a hot broth to cook) and it was the perfect pairing. The Wine Advocate gave this wine an 88 point rating. I would agree with this rating. It retails for $20. According to Steve Kreps, Jr. from Quintessential Wines (see ad in side bar), the Tinto Figuero 15 is outstanding. If I can't find it locally, I will call Mr. Kreps and have it shipped. Give these wines a try.