Bodegas Teso La Monja
2010 "Almirez" Toro Spain

Even richer is the 2010 Almirez, which comes from a vineyard planted at an altitude of 2,300 feet. Yields were 18 hectoliters per hectare, and the wine was aged 12 months in mostly French oak (30% new). This fabulous, inky/purple-colored wine exhibits notes of violets, graphite, licorice, blackberries and cassis. Full-bodied and rich with silky tannins as well as abundant minerality, this super-rich, full-throttle 2010 can be enjoyed over the next decade. These are two extraordinary wines produced by the Eguren family in the province of Zamora in Toro. Readers who love full-flavored, robust, exuberant red wines will adore these two 2010s. (10/ 2012)

94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate...

(malo in small French barrels, followed by 12 months in French oak, a third of it new): Vivid purple. Explosively perfumed dark berry preserve, Asian spice and potpourri aromas, with cola and soy accents building with air. Sappy, smooth and appealingly sweet, offering spicy blackberry and cherry flavors with nuances of candied violet and cracked pepper. Finishes sweet and long, with lingering floral and spice notes. (9/ 2012)

92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar..

Generous yet focused, this modern red delivers black cherry, currant, licorice and mineral flavors, framed by toast and coffee notes. Offers a sleek, firm texture and a long, floral finish. Drink now through 2018. (2/ 2013) 

91 points Wine Spectator