Matchbook Tempranillo 2011 Front Label
Matchbook Tempranillo 2011 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

The Tempranillo and Graciano vines grown in the Matchbook Vineyard in the Dunnigan Hills are from cuttings imported from the Pesquera region of Spain. While the traditional flavors of earth, leather and spice are evident from these old-world varietals, the Matchbook Tempranillo shows its California upbringing in the expansive aromas of blackberry and vanilla. Rich flavors of espresso mingle with dark chocolate and ripe cherry. Matchbook 2011 Tempranillo is big, bold and intense. The wine is luscious and layered with a good firm finish. Pair with a grilled New York strip steak or fillet with a "Pittsburg char."

Blend: 77% Tempranillo, 9% Graciano, 10% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot

Professional Ratings

  • 90
    Chocolaty aromas and ample spicy, dark-fruit flavors power this generous and firm-textured wine. Everything seems in place and in balance, ready to take on a nice roast or braise.
Matchbook

Matchbook

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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.

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Dunnigan Hills

Yolo County, California

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Mitigated by mild Sacramento River Delta breezes, the Dunnigan Hills appellation is in the northwest portion of Yolo County and has a Mediterranean climate.

YNG911021_2011 Item# 137118