Vinas del Vero Crianza 2009
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Winemaker Notes
Viñas del Vero has been working in this area for several years now. Since we discovered it we have recovered the old Garnacha vines and planted new ones such as Syrah and Parraleta that adapt very well to this unique place. It is interesting that although this was the traditional wine-growing part of Somontano in antiquity, the area was passed over while the denomination of origin was being introduced. Viñas del Vero has been a firm believer in the area's potential, however, and is currently the only winery in Somontano that makes wine from grapes grown in the Secastilla valley.
The “Secastilla Valley” estates (‘pagos’) are located in the far north-eastern edge of Somontano and share a special “Mediterranean microclimate”. The area’s relative altitude and particular orientation mean that it enjoys a high number of hours of sunlight, which helps the fruit ripen. The whole area is dry and the soil is loamy sand and quite stony.
With hundreds of red grape varieties to choose from, winemakers have the freedom to create a virtually endless assortment of blended red wines. In many European regions, strict laws are in place determining the set of varieties that may be used, but in the New World, experimentation is permitted and encouraged resulting in a wide variety of red wine styles. Blending can be utilized to enhance balance or create complexity, lending different layers of flavors and aromas. For example, a red wine blend variety that creates a fruity and full-bodied wine would do well combined with one that is naturally high in acidity and tannins. Sometimes small amounts of a particular variety are added to boost color or aromatics. Blending can take place before or after fermentation, with the latter, more popular option giving more control to the winemaker over the final qualities of the wine.
How to Serve Red Wine
A common piece of advice is to serve red wine at “room temperature,” but this suggestion is imprecise. After all, room temperature in January is likely to be quite different than in August, even considering the possible effect of central heating and air conditioning systems. The proper temperature to aim for is 55° F to 60° F for lighter-bodied reds and 60° F to 65° F for fuller-bodied wines.
How Long Does Red Wine Last?
Once opened and re-corked, a bottle stored in a cool, dark environment (like your fridge) will stay fresh and nicely drinkable for a day or two. There are products available that can extend that period by a couple of days. As for unopened bottles, optimal storage means keeping them on their sides in a moderately humid environment at about 57° F. Red wines stored in this manner will stay good – and possibly improve – for anywhere from one year to multiple decades. Assessing how long to hold on to a bottle is a complicated science. If you are planning long-term storage of your reds, seek the advice of a wine professional.
Literally meaning ‘under the mountain,’ Somontano is a diverse region located in the foothills of the south central Pyrenees. Heavy winter rains supply the region with water even throughout the summer.