Arzuaga Reserva Especial 2020

Arzuaga Reserva Especial comes from Bodegas Arzuaga Navarro in D.O. Ribera del Duero, a blend of 90 percent Tinta del País and 10 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. The fruit is drawn from centenarian vines on clay soils rich in limestone, sitting around 900 metres above sea level. That altitude brings cold nights and a wide diurnal range, which slows ripening and holds acidity, while the harsh continental climate cuts yields and concentrates the grapes. The harvest is manual and the bunches are selected without de-stemming before going into wood, so a portion of stem tannin and whole-berry character carries through. After alcoholic fermentation the wine spends 24 months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds cedar, vanilla and a smoky edge. The result is deep and structured, with aromas of ripe plum and black cherry, dark chocolate and tobacco over an earthy base. The palate is full and firm, the oak well integrated, the finish long and savoury. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant an hour ahead. It suits roast and grilled red meat and aged hard cheese.