Valdehermoso Joven 2025

Valdehermoso Joven is made by Bodega Valderiz in Ribera del Duero, a winery active since 1980 that farms sustainably and avoids chemical additives that would alter the vine or the soil. Fermentation runs on the vineyard's own indigenous yeasts, which lends the wine a sense of place. Ribera del Duero sits on the high plateau of Castilla y Leon, where hot days and cold nights and a short growing season give Tempranillo, known locally as Tinta del Pais, its deep colour, ripe dark fruit and firm backbone. As a joven this bottling sees only brief time in wood, so the emphasis is on fresh fruit rather than oak, while keeping the region's natural grip. At 14.5 percent it is full but balanced. The colour is a dense purple-red. The nose shows dark plum, black cherry and a note of liquorice, with a light peppery edge. The palate is full bodied, with ripe tannins, fresh acidity and a firm, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanting a young bottle to open it up. It suits roast lamb and grilled red meats.