The 2021 El Primer Paso matured in barrel for six months. It's creamy, lush and round, with an unbelievable 16% alcohol but still comes through as balanced, in an XL way. It has integrated oak; they are reducing the percentage of American oak to maybe 30%. It has notes of licorice and ripe berries, and it's easier to drink than you might think; it's ripe and hedonistic with a round and full-bodied palate with slightly dusty tannins. 59,285 bottles produced. Drink 2023 through 2027.

— 92 Points Wine Advocate — Quoted at $25, Jan 31, 2023

The 2021 El Primer Paso was matured in barrels. This red offers confit-like flavors, featuring candy, caramel and ripe marmalade-infused plum aromas. It is rich and intense on the palate, radiating bold warmth and a subtle lingering hint of pyridine. This sun-kissed red wine packs a punch with 16% alcohol content yet maintains a fairly nuanced character. Drink 2026 through 2040.

— 92 Points Vinous, September 1, 2023

Ripe and big red with some baked black cherries and blackberries with a hint of roasted spices. Full-bodied and nicely chewy on the palate with a flavorful mid-palate and a hint of dark spice in the finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink now.

— 90 Points James Suckling, April 14, 2023