Characterized as a challenging vintage due to its extended ripening season, 2006 in Ribera del Duero began with a winter that was more representative of central Europe than its typically dry homeland of Castilla y Leon. The beginning of the year was cold and rainy, giving way to a showery spring that lasted until the end of April, when a blast of heat hit Ribera del Duero. The rain resumed in June, after one of the driest Mays on record. Temperatures spikes in July were relieved by classic mid-summer Castillian storms and August was cooler than usual, with additional rainfall mid-month. While September began with ideal harvest conditions, early rain required careful vineyard management during harvest time. The resulting grapes were marked by good development in the face of adversity, and maintained key organoleptic components in their skins, making the wines perfect for long-bottle aging. The 2006 vintage is medium-bodied, well-balanced and smooth, with exemplary purity and poise. Dark cherry notes are accented by hints of vanilla, sweet spice, cigar box and dark chocolate.