Pago de Valdoneje >
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From a small region in Northwest Spain this is a promising new D.O. sheltered from the climactic extremes of the Atlantic and the hot, central plateau of the Duero River. The region’s well-defined soils of slate and granite result in red wines of rich, balanced fruit.
The Mencia grapes come from 5 hectares of estate vineyards located in Valtuille de Abajo. The vines are anywhere from 50 to 100 years old providing rich dark grapes that are full-bodied and robust.
For three generations this family has been making wine. Up until the 2001 vintage, the present patriarch, Marcos Garcia, continued the tradition of making wine only for family and friends in the surrounding region. As the reputation and demand for the wine grew, however, he decided to offer small quantities to other markets with the US being the first export opportunity.
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Preserving the family's commitment to quality, the wine is made from 100% estate fruit, with all winemaking, bottling and cellaring done on the family property.
The winemaking is overseen by famed local enologist Raul Garcia. Produced entirely from Mencia grapes, the indigenous red varietal from Northwestern Spain, this is a wine known for its fragrant, mouth-filling fruit characteristics. In order to preserve the integrity of the old vines while delivering a fresh, modern palate, traditional winemaking techniques are augmented by 100% fermentation in stainless steel cuves. It sees no wood before bottling with total production for this vintage at under 2500 cases.
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| Bierzo Cepas Viejas |
Top 100 Best Buy Wines for 2007
From 100-year old vines, the grapes used to make Pago de Valdoneje Viñas Viejas are carefully selected from the best vines on the property.
Aromas of blackberry, violet and sweet tar balanced with berry flavors and dark fruit in the finish. Aged for 11 months in French Oak barrels.
Only 250 cases produced.
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