Matarromera Crianza 2023

Matarromera Crianza 2022 is a Ribera del Duero red made entirely from Tempranillo, known locally as Tinta del Pais, by Bodegas Matarromera in Valbuena de Duero. The grapes come from vineyards planted at around 800 metres on sandy-clay loam in the Pago de San Roman, on the northern slopes of the Duero valley. The high altitude brings cold nights and a wide diurnal swing that lock in colour, acidity and tannin, while the continental climate drives full ripeness, giving the powerful, structured style typical of Ribera del Duero. The harvest is done by hand in October. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel to keep the fruit pure, after which the wine spends 14 months in French and American oak barrels. The barrel ageing rounds the firm tannins through oxygen exchange and adds vanilla, spice and a savoury edge. The wine is an intense, almost ruby red. The nose shows ripe dark fruit, vanilla, tobacco and a hint of cocoa. The palate is full bodied and structured, with firm tannin, dark fruit and a long finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant. It is a strong match for grilled and roast red meat.