Pradorey Ribera del Duero el Buen Alfarero 2018 750ml

A limited-production, micro-terroir wine of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Albillo Mayor grown wildly within the site, this is a “vino de tinaja,” aged in clay amphorae (tinaja), where the evolution of aging is slow, akin to a Gran Reserva without any oak. Fresh and youthful, it is not made every year (there’s no 2019), as the fermentation temperatures are not controlled. It’s an intense experience of minerally dark fruit, rounded tannins, and enduring earthiness that’s impressive and unusual. With only 1,500 or so bottles made, drink now.

• Country: Spain
• Region: Castilla Y Leon
• Appellation: Ribera Del Duero
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red
• Alcohol by Vol: 14.0%

Varietal

Tempranillo

There are plenty of notable native Spanish grapes which have made a big impression on the wine world at large, but none are as renowned or as widely loved as the Tempranillo varietal. This black skinned grape has been used for wine making for centuries, with several ancient civilizations noticing the fact that it is highly versatile and holds some delicious flavors and aromas, perfect for those looking for a powerful yet elegant grape for their wines. Tempranillo often causes winemakers some trouble, however, as it is highly susceptible to many diseases. Despite this, plenty continue to persevere with this varietal, as it is perfect for producing delicious and complex single variety and blended wines, packed full of classic Spanish flavors and plenty of aromatic and intense surprises.