2001 Dominio de Pingus Flor de Pingus

This little brother to Pingus, one of Spain’s greatest wines, always offers stupendous value. The 2001 happened to be a stellar vintage in Ribera del Duero, so the price-quality ratio is particularly delicious. Made from old vine Tempranillo, the 2001 Flor de Pingus is something of an earthy aristocrat with wonderful aromas of dried plums and dark cherries, earth and smoke. Sweet on the nose, in the mouth it’s full bodied and very dry with dusty tannins and an interesting finish. Owner-winemaker Peter Sisseck continues to up the ante at this young estate.

-- S. Irene Virbila

Quick swirl

Region: Ribera del Duero, Spain

Price: About $50

Style: Opulent

Food it goes with: Grilled leg of lamb, grilled lamb chops, ribs, braised meats

Where you find it: Hi-Time Wine Cellars in Costa Mesa, (949) 650-8463; Wally’s in West Los Angeles, (310) 475-0606; Wine Exchange in Orange, (714) 974-1454; (800) 76WINEX