Carmelo Rodero Raza Reserva 2022

Carmelo Rodero Raza Reserva is made by Bodegas Rodero in Pedrosa del Duero, in the heart of D.O. Ribera del Duero. The blend is dominated by Tinta del País, the local name for Tempranillo, with a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon, drawn from old vines over thirty years old. Ribera del Duero is a high plateau in Castilla y León where the continental climate brings hot days and cold nights, and that wide diurnal range ripens the thick-skinned grapes fully while preserving acidity and firm tannin. The poor limestone and clay soils restrict yields and concentrate flavour. Maceration and fermentation are carried out at controlled temperature to extract colour and structure gently, before twenty-one months of ageing in French oak barrels. Slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the tannins and adds spice, vanilla and cedar, while the long élevage builds complexity. The wine is deep ruby with a garnet rim, full bodied and concentrated, with a nose of ripe blackberry, plum and red currant over vanilla, clove, tobacco and dark chocolate. The palate is firm and structured, with ripe tannin and a long, spiced finish. Serve at 17 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. It suits roast and grilled meats.