La Hormiga de Antídoto 2022

La Hormiga de Antídoto comes from Bodegas Antídoto in the Soria reaches of Ribera del Duero, the highest and coolest corner of the appellation in Castilla y León. The climate here is harsh and the altitude considerable, so the Tempranillo ripens slowly through warm days and cold nights. That wide diurnal swing holds onto acidity and aromatic detail while the fruit develops, which is why these reds carry freshness alongside their power. Work is done plot by plot in the vineyard, with respectful agriculture across the holdings. After fermentation the wine ages 14 months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannin and adds a measured frame of spice and toast without burying the fruit. The colour is deep ruby. The nose leads with ripe red and black berries, plum and a lift of pepper and liquorice, with an earthy, mineral undertone from the limestone and sand soils. The palate is full and structured, the tannin firm but ripe, the finish long and savoury. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, ideally decanted an hour ahead. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and aged Manchego.