Spotting A Cellar-worthy Cosecha

How, beyond the price tag, can you tell the difference between cosechas selling for US$10 and US$100? First, check the year. If the wine is from 2021 or 2022, it’s probably a standard cosecha. If it’s an expensive new release from 2019 or earlier, it’s more likely modern and high-end.

Then, check the larger back label (above the consejo sticker), which should offer information such as vineyard site, production method, and number of bottles made. Terms such as ‘aged in concrete’ or ‘aged in foudres’ are a sign that you’re holding a non-traditional vintage. And in general, the fewer bottles there are, the more special it is.

While you are unlikely to encounter chuleton de buey outside Spain, the modern-style Ribera del Duero wines below are perfect with a tomahawk steak or porterhouse.

Arzuaga 2017 Amaya, US$115

A silky texture enhanced by flavours of black cherry, cassis, anisette, espresso and lavender, with a bright finish.

Dominio de Calogía 2019, US$85

Smooth on the palate with terrific acidity, notes of red and dark berries, creme brulee, clove and lavender.

Félix Callejo 2019 Suelos de Caliza, US$126

Forceful tannins play host to pomegranate, raspberry, clove, nutmeg and holiday-baking-spice flavours with a rose-petal finish.

Dominio de Atauta 2016 La Roza, US$212

Full-bodied on impact but softens quickly. A gorgeous balance of fruit, spice and dried-herb flavours, with lingering vanilla-custard notes.

Pago de los Capellanes 2018 Parcela el Picón, US$145

Juicy on entry, with cherry, strawberry, coffee and chocolate flavours, luxurious tannins and a rose-petal finish.

Viña Sastre 2016 Pesus, US$272

Powerful in the mouth, with black-cherry, anise, milkchocolate and violet flavours wrapped in opulent tannins.

Vega Sicilia 2018 Valbuena 5°, US$164

Fresh at first sip, opening to reveal beautiful structure, polished tannins, and flavours of cherry, black currant and Mission fig, with a dusting of baking spice.