You have heard me speak highly of Spanish wines before- not only their great quality but their exceptional value. This area is known for high-quality Reserva wines, and harsh weather with their oldest plantings dating back 60 years, sitting 780 feet above sea level. It is an easy 2-hour drive north of Madrid and southeast of Rioja.
Their vineyards hug two km of the Duero River that weaves its way through 70 km of the Ribera del Duero region. The Wine Label shows the river and the vineyard locations.
Established before the Denominación de Origen was created, it governs not only regional boundaries but the wine, and food standards in Spain- both of which are an inseparable concept in Spain.
Ribera del Duero wines fall into three categories:
1. Crianza: Must be aged at least one year in oak barrels.
2. Reserva: Must be aged at least one year in oak barrels, and an additional two or more years in bottles.
3. Gran Reserva: Must be aged at least two years in oak barrels and an additional three or more years in bottles.
This Reserva is made from 100% Tinta del Pais, or Tinto Fino, as it is known locally, but you will know it as Tempranillo.
Locals use different names, claiming local growing conditions produce characteristics that are completely different from Tempranillo grown elsewhere, believing they are fresher, and more elegant in style.
The nose is dominated by enticing dark fruits, baking spices, and olives.
The is silky smooth with layers of blackberries, dark cherries, black currant, and cranberry, with secondary notes of olives, spices, leather, black licorice, and black tea. Tannins are evident, chewy with a boldness that demands your attention. Nice savory notes on a long finish. May need a few years of cellaring to soften the tannins but it will be worth it.
Cellar out to 2030 – 2035 depending on how aged you like your wines.
Pairings should include Beef, Lamb, and Game.
Vine to Table 