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Superb Spanish Red from Ribera del Duero
The charming countryside in Spain is generously dotted with vineyard after picturesque vineyard, and as you make your way west from the verdant coast of Green Spain to the dusty plateau of Ribera del Duero, one thing is for certain — Spanish wines have an unbeatable price to quality ratio. This is especially true in Ribera del Duero, where you can consistently find top quality, critically acclaimed wines for way less than ones in neighboring countries.
Ribera del Duero is located on the dry plateau of north-central Spain along the Duero River (known as the Douro River once it flows into Portugal). Along with neighboring Rioja, the region is noted for some the best Tempranillo-based wines in the world. Here the local Tempranillo varietal, known as Tinto Fino or Tinta del Pais, is on of the very few grapes that can withstand the harsh climatic conditions of the region. while yielding especially complex wines.
In summer, temperatures can reach highs of 45°C/113°F during the day, and in the evening, the vineyard can cool down to 15°C/59°F. Thanks to this extreme diurnal swing, Tempranillo in Ribera del Duero develops particularly complex aromas and density of fruit while retaining balanced acidity –this provides the wine with a surprising amount of freshness and lift from such a punishing climate. A steadily-blowing dry wind, much like the Mistral in France, also helps to ensure a healthy ripening of the fruit.
Ribera del Duero - Spain's Bordeaux
Old school, old vine Tempranillo
Vina Vilano is located in Pedrosa de Duero (Burgos), and is one of the oldest wineries in the Ribera del Duero. The history of Bodegas Vilano begins in 1957 when the parents and grandparents of the current members united their vineyards as a Co-op. At that time, their vineyards already had significant old vine holdings, and now the average age of their vines is 40 years!
Bodegas Vilano - Ribera's best Co-op
Tempranillo loves the poor soil here, producing very low yields of high quality; however, it’s common for vintage variations in the region to wreak havoc with that high quality — especially from vines with such small yields. Bodegas Vilano has the largest vineyard holdings in the area, and that provides them with a very valuable advantage. The numerous small, scattered plots of the Co-Op and their significant differences in microclimate, soil conditions and moisture all help to temper and compensate for fluctuations in difficult vintages.
An AWM find and exclusive selection
In the glass, a quick swirl unlocks aromas of red berries and cherry along with hints of leather and balsamic. The palate features ripe, dusty, Bordeaux-like tannins that beautifully compliment the nicely extracted fruit. As more air gets to your glass, it offers even more complexity — smoky cherry and raspberry with cocoa spice. Pair this with lamb, beef, and all your favorite hearty soups and stews of winter.
This wine is always well rated, and I this review from the Spectator hits it spot on:
90 Points: Wine Spectator Sep 30, 2017
“This lively red delivers black cherry and licorice flavors, with smoky and leafy notes. Fresh and focused, in a balanced structure that is energetic and graceful. Made in a clean, modern style. Drink now through 2024. 8,850 cases made.” (90 pts.)
2014 Bodegas Vilano Crianza
Ribera del Duero, Spain- Can't make it in? Call 828-253-0060 with your credit card number.
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