Malleolus de Valderramiro 2018 🇪🇸

Malleolus de Valderramiro 2018: A Family Legacy in Every Bottle

98 points.
"A deep and complex Tempranillo from one of Ribera del Duero’s most iconic vineyards, this 2018 vintage from Emilio Moro captures the essence of both the land and the family’s winemaking tradition." – Wine Advocate

Tasting Notes:

• Color: Deep cherry red with intense purple highlights.
• Nose: Aromas of ripe blackberries, dark plum, and cassis are layered with hints of black pepper, clove, and a touch of vanilla, accented by cocoa and smoky undertones from oak aging.
• Palate: Full-bodied and powerful, this wine delivers concentrated flavors of black cherry, dark chocolate, and sweet tobacco, balanced by firm yet velvety tannins. It offers richness with elegance, showcasing well-integrated oak and a long, persistent finish.
• Finish: Exceptionally long, with lingering notes of ripe fruit, spices, and a distinct minerality that speaks to the vineyard’s terroir.

The Story Behind the Wine:

The Moro family is synonymous with Ribera del Duero winemaking. With over 120 years of winemaking history, Emilio Moro has been passed down through three generations, starting with Emilio Moro's grandfather, who first planted vines in the fertile soils of the Ribera del Duero. The family has always been deeply connected to the land, and today, Emilio Moro Winery is one of the most respected names in Spanish wine.

The Malleolus de Valderramiro is a special single-vineyard wine, crafted from vines planted in 1924 in the historic Valderramiro vineyard. These old vines produce low yields but exceptionally concentrated grapes, resulting in a wine that reflects both the unique terroir and the Moro family’s passion for quality winemaking. The 2018 vintage was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, enhancing its structure while preserving the integrity of the fruit.

José and Javier Moro, the current generation of the Moro family, continue to innovate while honoring their roots, blending tradition with modern techniques to craft wines that are both timeless and forward-thinking.

What Makes the Moro Family Special:

The Moro family’s approach to winemaking is a blend of passion, tradition, and innovation. Their deep roots in Ribera del Duero’s history, combined with a commitment to sustainable viticulture, allow them to create wines that not only reflect the land but also stand out as some of Spain’s finest. The family focuses on preserving the natural qualities of their vineyards, using hand-harvesting and careful selection to ensure that only the best fruit goes into their wines. Their long-standing expertise, passed down through generations, ensures that each bottle carries the hallmark of their dedication to excellence.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Red Meat: Ideal with grilled lamb or prime ribeye, where the wine’s robust tannins complement the richness of the meat.
• Game: A perfect match for venison, wild boar, or duck, enhancing the wine’s earthy and spicy characteristics.
• Cheese: Pairs wonderfully with strong, aged cheeses like Manchego or Pecorino, balancing the wine’s depth and structure.

Winemaking & Terroir:

The Valderramiro vineyard is known for its unique clay-limestone soils and high altitude, which provide ideal conditions for growing Tempranillo. The vines here are nearly a century old, producing concentrated fruit with complex flavors. Hand-harvested and fermented using traditional methods, the wine is aged in 100% French oak, allowing for a perfect balance between fruit and oak influence.

Wine Specifications:

• Variety: 100% Tempranillo (Tinto Fino)
• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Serving Temperature: 16-18°C
• Bottle Size: 750 ml
• Cellaring Potential: Best enjoyed over the next 15-20 years, with peak maturity expected between 2025-2035.
• Appellation: Ribera del Duero DO, Spain
• Buy Now: Malleolus de Valderramiro 2018

Discover the legacy of the Moro family with Malleolus de Valderramiro 2018. Available at Caná Wine Shop, with free shipping on orders over $150.