Tempranillo 2015

Why Tempranillo?  This is recognized as the finest red variety indigenous to Spain and comes out after a decade of experimenting with it in our vineyard. We have found in the Green Valley both the ideal site and planting system to see it thrive, just like it does in the cool areas of Ribera del Duero and High Rioja of Northern Spain.

The Don Miguel Vineyard: Named after the late patriarch of the Torres family, this sustainable and biodynamic vineyard is located in the Green Valley — the coolest, foggiest region of the Russian River, only ten miles from the Pacific. It is planted in 'vaso' or head trained, which is the classic vine training system of the best Tempranillos grown in Spain; the fruit zone is circular around the head of the vine and the canopy creates an 'umbrella' shape over the fruit that results in dappled light.

The Vinification: The grapes were harvested September 23, hand sorted, destemmed and fermented in small stainless steel tanks, using our own indigenous yeast. The wine was aged in premium French oak barrels, 66% new, coopered by Magreñán from the forest of Vosges. It was bottled, unfined and unfiltered, in August 2016.

Tasting Notes: The aromas are classic of the variety: blueberries, roasted coffee and hints of anise and orange peel. The elegant oak is perfectly balanced and contributes a note of vanilla bean. The wine is round and mouthfilling on the palate, with full body and firm tannins that promise a long life. I would recommend serving this wine at cellar temperature, between 58-60° F.