The 2017 vintage rated as "Very Good" has been characterized by being a warm and dry year. Low water reserves at the start became more severe during the months of July and August, when conditions were extremely dry except for some heavy rains towards the beginning of the harvest. Yet without a doubt the defining moment of the year was the frost that affected much of Ribera del Duero on April 28th, immediately following budding, resulting in weak plant mass. This affected plant growth and flowering for the entire year resulting in major production losses. This mishap was followed by some very hot months in June and July. Due to these events the wines of this year are characterized by being wines with more volume and medium acidity. Perfect to drink while young and with a good capacity for aging.
After a dry winter, spring came loaded with rain. Thankfully, this water was stored, since it was much needed during the extremely dry summer. The low temperatures during spring delayed the sprouting of the vines, which led the growth cycle to start with delay. However, this delay was offset thanks to the high temperatures recorded in July and August, to the point of delaying ripening in those younger vineyards.
The 2016 vintage beat the production record of the 2014 vintage. And not only in production, but also in quality due to the excellent weather conditions and the excellent health of the vineyards.
The wines from this vintage offer a lot of volume, with a good capacity to face the passing of time, with roundness and spectacular tannins. A harvest reminiscent of those of the late 80s and early 90s.
The 2015 vintage started with a winter that had good groundwater reserves. The spring was warm and dry until well into the month of June, when there were intense rainfall at the beginning of the blooming. A summer with some well spread out storms gave way to a very dry autumn.
The harvest was slightly ahead of the usual dates, but the analytical and organoleptic features, and the balance of the berries, were ideal. Thus enabled the harvest to take place at the optimal ripening time.
The wines from this vintage, which was classified as excellent, have a good colour intensity, significant fruity notes on the nose and a high tannic potential in the mouth, with sweet tannins that indicate the good phenolic ripening of the berries. A vintage reminiscent of the exceptional 2005 vintage.
Sight
A purplish picota red colour. Nose
Very fruity at first, later joined by balsamic notes and touches of liquorice. Taste
Very fruity, silky and fresh with good balance.