Emilio Moro Malleolus de Sanchomartín 2022

Emilio Moro has farmed in Ribera del Duero for more than fifty years, and Malleolus de Sanchomartin is its single vineyard red, drawn entirely from the Sanchomartin estate. The wine is made from Tinto Fino, the local Tempranillo, grown at altitude on the limestone and clay soils that define the region. Those poor calcareous soils limit vigour and the wide swing between hot days and cold nights slows ripening, building colour, tannin and aromatic depth while holding acidity. Sourcing the fruit from one estate gives a focused expression of that particular site. The wine is farmed under respectful agriculture and aged in French oak, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and layers in cedar, vanilla and spice. It pours a deep, saturated red, with aromas of ripe plum and black cherry, cocoa and pepper over an earthy, mineral base. The palate is full and firmly structured at 15 percent, with dense fruit, fine tannin and a long savoury finish that reflects the cool nights of the site. Decant an hour ahead and serve at 17 degrees in a large glass. It suits roast red meat and aged cheese.