El Domador del Valle Vendimia Seleccionada Reserva is a premium Tempranillo-based red wine from Bodegas El Somo in the Rioja region of Spain. This 750ML bottle showcases traditional Old World winemaking with indigenous yeasts and proper barrel aging in a mix of French and American oak. The 2018 vintage earned 94 points from Wine Enthusiast for its deep ruby color and complex bouquet of cassis, cherry, marjoram and sage, with plush tannins wrapped around purple fig, black plum and mocha flavors with touches of toffee.

The wine exhibits classic Rioja character with aromas of baked red berry fruits, dark plums and cherries, fragrant spices, leather, five spice, dried herbs and a distinctive clay-like earthy quality. On the palate, flavors mirror the bouquet with dried spice phenolic qualities, abundant chalky tannins and medium acidity. At a modest 13.5% ABV, this traditionally-styled Reserva offers excellent minerality and complexity. Community reviews on CellarTracker average 89.2 points, with tasters praising its toasted wood, red cherry, sandalwood, nutmeg and allspice notes, along with a peppery finish.

Best enjoyed with hearty fare such as beef short ribs and vegetables, or savored after dinner. The wine is drinking well now and will continue to evolve for several more years. Reviewers note it benefits from about an hour of breathing time before serving to fully open up its flavors.