2019 BARCO DE PIEDRA TEMPRANILLO, RIBERA DEL DUERO SPAIN

"Barco de Piedra” refers to the nickame of the Castle of Peñafiel, the “stone ship” fortress constructed in the 10th century that still stands guard over the Valladolid province. Perhaps more famous these days are the region’s wines, and Barco de Piedra is an affirmation of the beauty and purity of the Tempranillo grape when grown in the extreme conditions of DO Ribera del Duero. Locally known as Tinto Fino or Tinta del País, this grape can sometimes be distorted by producers who like to use excessive “make up”: too much new oak or jammy extraction. The logic behind Barco de Piedra is simple: Tempranillo grown in Ribera del Duero has abundant natural tannin that speaks for itself without seeking style points. The three parcels that produce Barco de Piedra are located on the hillside of the Quiñón Estate. Black raspberry and violet aromas with rose petal, blueberry and mineral notes make this wine a delight to drink. Barco de Piedra is one of the prettiest examples of the elegance and structure of Ribera del Duero, one of the great wine regions of the world.