2023 Aalto

Aalto Winery

Founded in the late 1990s, Aalto quickly became one of Ribera del Duero's benchmarks. The estate uses old Tempranillo vines from select plots across the appellation. The style is contemporary yet serious, emphasizing ripe fruit, balance, and careful wood integration. Aalto combines concentration with accessibility, without losing sight of its aging potential.

More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

Ribera del Duero is characterized by high-altitude vineyards and large temperature variations between day and night. These conditions ensure aromatic intensity and maintain freshness, even in riper years. The soils vary from chalky to clay and gravel, which contributes to the structure and tension of the wines.

Vineyards

Aalto works with a selection of old vineyards spread across several villages in Ribera del Duero. The vines produce low yields with concentrated fruit. By vinifying individual plots, he can select specifically for balance, ripeness, and regional expression.

Grape varieties and composition

The wine is made from Tempranillo, also known locally as Tinto Fino. The focus is on pure fruit and structure, without the use of other grape varieties. This creates a clear and recognizable style that closely reflects its origins.

Harvest, vinification and maturation

The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully selected. Vinification focuses on extraction and texture, ensuring a balance of power and finesse. Maturation takes place in oak barrels of various origins and ages. The wood supports the fruit and contributes to its complexity without becoming dominant.

Color, smell and taste

The wine displays a deep ruby red color. The aroma reveals ripe cherries and dark berry fruit, supported by notes of cedarwood, balsamic spices, and a subtle floral nuance. Accents of caramel and a light earthiness add depth. On the palate, the wine is broad and creamy in structure, with a clear yet well-integrated oak influence. The tannins are ripe and moderate, allowing the fruit to shine through. The overall result is balanced and polished, with a long, polished finish that combines modernity and freshness.

Summary of professional reviews

No current reviews are available for this vintage. In recent vintages, the wine has been praised for its ripe fruit expression, balanced oak use, and polished structure, which is a good indication of the intended style and quality.

The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Short summary

The 2023 Aalto is a modern Ribera del Duero with a deep color and aromas of ripe cherry fruit, cedar, and balsamic herbs. On the palate, it combines a creamy texture with ripe tannins and a refined oak influence. The overall result is balanced, polished, and clearly focused on quality and consistency, with both immediate charm and ageing potential.