Alba Abiega Sin Prisas 2024

Sin Prisas is the wine of Alba Abiega, who left a corporate career to start again in the Spanish countryside, and the name, meaning without rushing, reflects an unhurried approach to the vineyard and cellar. It is an organically farmed Tempranillo from the D.O. Ribera del Duero, a high plateau on the Duero river where the continental climate brings hot days and very cold nights. That sharp diurnal swing slows ripening, fixes deep colour and locks in the acidity that gives the wine its freshness, while organic farming keeps the fruit and soil expressive. After fermentation the wine spends twelve months in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the tannins and adds spice and a light toast without overwhelming the fruit. It pours an intense purplish red with bluish highlights, showing ripe dark berry and plum on the nose lifted by a fine floral note, with sweet spice and dried herbs from the barrel. The palate is fresh and savoury, with ripe tannins and a long, clean finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting briefly, with roast lamb, grilled beef or a mushroom dish.