The average age of the vines used for this wine are 100+ years old, grown at 800-900 meters above sea level. Brothers Marcos and Miguel Eguren were behind the very successful Numanthia label that was subsequently acquired by LVMH. Teso La Monja was conceived in 2007 and has consistently produced top quality examples of Tinta de Toro.
The 2010 Alabaster was cropped even lower than the 2011 at seven hectoliters per hectare and later on October 9 and 10. The bouquet is tightly wound at the moment, with lifted black cherries, blueberry and a scent of cold stone, though there is some oak to be absorbed. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, supple tannins, crisp acidity and a fine sense of symmetry towards the persistent finish, with white pepper enlivening the aftertaste. This is another great wine from Teso La Monja Drink 2016-2028. Neal Martin – The Wine Advocate
(malo in new French oak followed by 18 months of aging in more new French oak): Inky ruby. A powerfully scented bouquet displays smoky blackberry, cherry compote, vanilla and dried rose. Sappy, liqueur-like dark berry flavors gain freshness with aeration, taking a turn to zesty raspberry and floral pastilles. Impressively focused and energetic for a wine of such size, finishing with excellent lift and snap. JR – Vinous Media
