Pintia, Toro 2021

Toro sits further west along the Duero than Ribera del Duero, and the difference is that the climate is harsher, rainfall scarcer, and the soils poorer and sandier. These conditions push the local Tinta de Toro grape towards intense concentration and considerable muscle. It's a variety that can easily overwhelm, but Pintia is Vega Sicilia's project here, and their instinct for finesse is what leads to a wine of power and balance.
2021 saw meaningful change in the cellar. Barrel ageing was cut to ten months, and for the first time, terracotta amphorae and granite vats came into play alongside oak — bringing a fresher, more textural dimension to the wine. The power is still there, but the fruit has more crunch and definition than in previous vintages: plum, warm stone and a touch of violet on a compact, layered palate, with sweet tannins and well-integrated toasty oak.

Drinking well now and has the structure to carry it comfortably through to the late 2030s. Decant for an hour before serving. Roast suckling pig or a richly braised oxtail are well-suited; something dark and substantial.

Vega Sicilia has to be Spain's most prestigious wine estate. Known the world over for super premium wines they're base is in Valbuena de Duero a few miles to the east of Valladolid. Founded in the mid 1800's they came to prominence during the twentieth century and they're currently owned by the Álvarez family who've been at the helm since 1982. As you would expect of such a much-vaunted estate their approach to their viticulture and winemaking is meticulous and painstaking. And their care and attention bears fruit in the quality of the finished products. There are three cuvées in the range, Único, Único Reserva Especial and the baby brother, Valbuena 5°. Head of winemaking is the respected Gonzalo Iturriaga who joined the business in 2015 after extensive experience in the Spanish wine trade.