The 2011 Crianza from Áster has a clean nose of ripe black fruit without excess, quite restrained for such a warm vintage. It has some lactic notes, nicely integrated oak, and a pinch of spices and smoke, classic Ribera. The palate is lush and round, with fine tannins and very good balance. A triumph over the conditions of the year. 150,000 bottles produced. Aster belongs to La Rioja Alta. I've seen a remarkable increase in the quality of the wines here in the last two or three years. Less oak and better balance. Well done! Score: 90 Points Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate