Hito 2024

Hito is the young red from Cepa 21 in Ribera del Duero, named for the stone milestones that mark direction on old roads, a reference to its modern take on early-drinking Tinto Fino. The fruit is single varietal Tinto Fino, the local Tempranillo, from vines propagated with clones taken from the region's most respected vineyards, farmed under sustainable practices. Ribera del Duero's high plateau, with poor limestone and clay soils and a sharp continental climate, drives a wide day to night temperature swing that fixes colour and aroma while keeping the fruit fresh. The grapes ferment for around 30 days with regular pump-overs to extract colour and gentle tannin, then the wine ages for eight months in French oak barrels, enough to add a subtle frame of spice and to round the texture while keeping the fruit to the fore. The colour is deep cherry red. The nose is fresh and direct, full of red fruit with subtle floral and spicy notes. The palate is medium bodied and balanced, the bright fruit carried on supple, ripe tannins and good acidity to a clean, peppery finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It suits grilled meats, sausages and tomato-rich dishes.