THE VINEYARD: The vines are not eternal. In order to have old vines in the future, we decided in 2001 to plant a vineyard in the south-eastern part of Briones, on a hillside with clay-limestone soils known as El Rincón. In addition, we operate three other small vineyards of the same age, also planted in Briones. Until these vines reach a sufficient age to be part of our reserves, we will use their grapes to make our Viñas Jóvenes.
GRAPES: El Rincón is planted mainly with Tempranillo, on trellises. In addition, we have a plot of Graciano in the part most exposed to the sun. Among the three other vineyards, two are planted with Tempranillo and one with Garnacha.
THE YEAR: 2021 saw a very eventful spring in Briones, with strong storms that left more than 80 liters of water in one week, and with three hailstorms that decimated several of our vineyards. The summer was dry and not very harsh, and September began with a few days of rain, which was very beneficial for the plants. During the harvest, the weather was perfect, with sunny days and cool nights. Our yields have been low due to hailstorms, and overall 2021 is a year of small berry grapes, intense and deep, but balanced wines.
VINIFICATION: The grapes are harvested by hand in 250 kg pallets and checked on a selection table. Fermentation takes place in small stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. As always in our cellar, we favor elegance over power.
AGEING: Rest for 12 months in second-use barrels, which previously contained our reserves, and in 500 liter jars. The barrels are refilled every six weeks to minimize oxidation.
BOTTLED: 22 bottles of our Viñas Jóvenes 500.