While Vega Sicilia is considered a 'First Growth' in the world of Spanish winemaking, it's sister-winery, Bodegas Pintia, should be compared to the likes of L'Évangile, owned by Lafite; a silky, elegant and ripe alternative with the same venerable pedigree.

Purchased by Vega Sicilia's owners, the Álvarez family, in 1996, they were attracted by the unique expression of Tempranillo made in the northern Spanish region of Toro. Former winemaker at Vega Sicilia, Xavier Ausas, says that is has a wilder character than the Ribera del Duero and that Tempranillo is 'more like a bull in Toro. If you don’t control it, you make wines that are over-ripe'. Thankfully, the Pintia was beautifully crafted in 2016.

A cooler, drier vintage in Toro, the 2016 has less alcohol, more freshness and 'more elegance' (WA) as a result. Scoring 95 points from the Wine Advocate's Luis Gutiérrez, it's highest ever score, there is a 'distinct lack of rusticity and density' compared to previous years.

Gutiérrez even says the 2016 'has some notes that took me to the Northern Rhône' as a clearly more elegant vintage than 2015, with such neatly integrated oak. This is a classy Pintia with 'abundant, chalky and fine-grained tannins and a supple, long and dry finish' (WA). Drinking beautifully already, it will have been in bottle for 3 years by the time it arrives in May, the 2016 will also cellar up to 2026.

Released at only £204 per case IB, 1/7th of the price of the new release of Vega Sicilia Unico 2011, the Pintia Toro 2016 is a fantastic wine for those looking for a high quality, elegant Tempranillo, with the pedigree of Vega Sicilia, but without the price-tag.