Winemaker Notes
Paso a Paso means step-by-step and perfectly describes the meticulous attention that goes into crafting this range of wines from a large single estate vineyard the region of La Mancha, Finca Los Cruces. From hand-selecting the best vines growing in its famed sandy soil, to hand-harvesting followed by slow and gentle fermentations, no step of the process has been overlooked. This rigorous process results in an exquisite wine full of succulent fruit flavor and unparalleled elegance.
Bright violet color. Aromas of red berries, spices and dried flowers with a spicy note that is becomes pronounced as it breathes. Juicy in the mouth, offers fresh currants and cherry flavors. Fine-grained tannins add to a long finish with accented spices.
Notoriously food-friendly, long-lasting and Spain’s most widely planted grape, Tempranillo is the star variety of red wines from Rioja and Ribera del Duero. The Rioja terms Joven, Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva indicate both barrel and bottle time before release. Traditionally blended in Rioja with Garnacha, plus a bit of Mazuelo (Carignan) and Graciano, the Tempranillo in Ribera del Duero typically stands alone. Somm Secret—Tempranillo claims many different names depending on location. In Penedès, it is called Ull de Llebre and in Valdepeñas, goes by Cencibel. Known as Tinta Roriz in Portugal, Tempranillo plays an important role in Port wine.
The Moors gave it the name, ‘Manxa,’ which fittingly means ‘parched earth.’ La Mancha, the largest Spanish wine producing region in all of Spain, is one of its hottest and driest. Sturdy and drought-resistant white varieietes like Airen, Viura and Verdejo thrive in this environment.