Dominio de Atauta 2021

Dominio de Atauta sits in the Valley of Atauta, in Soria, on the high eastern edge of the D.O. Ribera del Duero. The wine is 100 percent Tinto Fino, the local Tempranillo, from vineyards planted at 950 to 1000 metres on limestone-sand soils. Altitude is the key here: at this height the climate is severe, with constant winds that dry and clean the fruit, and day-to-night temperature swings of around 25 degrees during harvest. That wide diurnal range slows ripening and preserves acidity and aromatic detail, which is why this is a fresher, lighter-bodied red than much of the region, while the limestone in the soil reinforces that sense of freshness and lift. Ageing runs eighteen months in French oak barrels, where malolactic fermentation softens the acidity and slow oxygen exchange through the staves rounds the tannins and adds a restrained vanilla and spice without masking the fruit. The result is an elegant red with cherry and raspberry, subtle vanilla, an earthy, herbal undertone and fine tannins. The palate is medium-bodied, fresh and refined. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits roast lamb, beef and mushroom dishes.