97 point

Always a favorite of mine, the 2022 Tabuérniga, produced with the field blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha and Graciano, fermented in open-top 3,000-liter oak vats with indigenous yeasts and matured in 1,200-liter foudres for 14 to 16 months. It started quite shy, a little closed, perhaps a little more reductive but in a way that it gives it seriousness. It is a serious red indeed, subtle and insinuating, complex and nuanced, but it does require attention, as it seems to whisper in a low voice in a way I like very much. It comes in at 14% alcohol, with a pH of 3.73 and 4.25 grams of acidity. It has some austerity, but it's all there and in place; it does not show any signs of excess or the heat and drought from the year.

96 point

One of the Labastida wines from a tiny, terraced 2.7-hectare field blend with quite a lot of Graciano, the 2022 Tabuerniga is feral and herbal, with upfront grip that melts on the midpalate, the tannins well-tamed. It has an inherent wildness that’s compelling and hard to shake, but undeniable finesse and elegance as well, finishing harmoniously at peace with its complex characteristics of sanguine garrigue, smoked meat, and dark chocolate berry deliciousness. Full-bodied, it will shed its baby fat over the next 20-25 years.

95 point

The 2022 Tabuérniga is a Tempranillo with Garnacha and Graciano from Labastida, aged 14–16 months in foudres. Slightly reductive at first, it then reveals soft violet, wild herbs, cherry and a hint of camphor on the nose. On the palate it is broad and textural, with light chalky grip and medium juiciness, finishing long and complex, its graceful persistence lifted by a subtle plush note.