Bodegas Hornillos Ballesteros Mibal Roble 2009
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Both Javier and Miguel own different vineyard parcels composed of diverse types of soil and texture. Javier with 49 acres of 75 years old vines in the town of Anguix is planted on loam soils composed of 40% sand, 40% fine gravel particles and 20% thin dry clay with low fertility of organic matter at less than 5%, preventing excessive vine growth. Yields at 2.2 lbs. per vine and small berry size, give high skin to juice ratio with deep pigmentation, rich and intense flavors and balanced levels of ripe tannins. Miguel with 50 acres of 35 years old vines on average is located in the town of Roa. Depth of soils provide a buffer against drought but are well drained, composed of sand and limestone with small particles of clay but poor in organic matter at less than 1% though yields are further controlled by early May pruning. Consistent quality fruit is grown yearly and outstanding wines made from vintage to vintage.
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.
Ribera del Duero, Spanish wine region, is located in northen Spain’s Castilla y León region, just a 2-hour drive from Madrid. While winemaking in this area goes back more than 2000 years, it was in the 1980s that 9 wineries applied for and were granted Denominación de Origen (D.O.) status. Today, more than 300 wineries call Ribera del Duero home, including some of Spain’s most iconic names.
Notable Facts Ribera’s main grape variety, Tempranillo, locally know as Tinto Fino, is perfectly suited to the extreme climate of the region, where it must survive scorching summers and frigid winters. Low yields resulting from conscientious tending to old vines planted in Ribera’s diverse soils types, give Ribera wines a distinctive depth and complexity not found in other Tempranillos. Rich and full-bodied, the spice, dark fruit and smoky flavors in a bold Ribera del Duero will pair well with roasted and grilled meats, Mexican food and tomato-based sauces.