Parajes de Callejo 2023

Parajes de Callejo comes from Félix Callejo, one of the Ribera del Duero wineries most associated with expressive Tinta Fina, the local name for Tempranillo, and the terroir of the appellation. The wine is built mainly on 25-year-old Tempranillo with a measure of Garnacha and a little of the white Albillo, all farmed organically to draw out the character of the site. The high plateau of Ribera del Duero brings cold nights and warm days, a wide diurnal range that ripens the dark fruit while holding acidity, and the continental climate gives the grapes their depth and structure. The wine ages in French oak, which firms the tannins and adds a measured spice through slow oxygen exchange while keeping the focus on fruit, and the splash of Albillo lifts the aromatics. It pours a deep, dark red. The nose shows ripe blackberry and plum with violet, liquorice and a fine toasted spice. The palate is full and structured, with the grip and freshness typical of the region's altitude, ripe but defined tannins and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanted, alongside grilled and roasted red meat.