Ermita del Conde Tempranillo 2017

Spain's Castile and León region is remarkable for its extreme altitude differences and poor soils. Vines thrive up to 1000 metres, where daytime temperatures and cool nights promote a distinctive acidity. Limestone soils and old vines contribute to concentration and depth. The region is known for powerful Tempranillo wines, dry and mineral-driven. Often, ancient Holm oaks surround the vineyards, shaping the landscape. The combination of cool nights and warm days allows for ripening without loss of fruit.

Ermita del Conde: The Winery

Winery Ermita del Conde is located west of the DO Ribera del Duero, in its geographical extension. They specialise in Tempranillo, with vines growing up to 940 metres. Limestone and clay soils encourage concentrated yields. Old vines produce low yields but ensure natural selection. Hand-harvesting and careful selection guarantee quality. Wine is fermented in stainless steel and concrete tanks, aged for 15 months in French barriques.

Ermita del Conde Tempranillo 2017: A Character Wine

Ermita del Conde Tempranillo 2017 is a dry red wine composed of 95% Tempranillo and 5% Merlot. The grapes come from vines over 60 years old, planted on limestone soils. The high altitude of 943 metres creates significant temperature fluctuations. The microclimate influences pricing. Colour: deep, dark purple with garnet hues. Nose: dark berries, violets, licorice. Palate: full-bodied, fresh acidity, fine tannins.

Aromas and Flavour: Complexity

The glass reveals a deep, dark wine with subtle garnet reflections. The nose offers dark berries, licorice, and vanilla. A mineral note is perceptible on the palate. The wine has a powerful structure, supported by the barrique ageing. The tannins are well-integrated, contributing to a pleasant finish. Complex, spicy, a balance of fruit, acidity, and oak influence.

Castile and León Region: Winegrowing History

Castile and León region is remarkable for its extreme altitude and poor soils. Vines thrive up to 1000 metres, where daytime temperatures and cool nights promote acidity. Limestone soils and old vines contribute to concentration. The region is known for powerful Tempranillo wines, dry and mineral-driven. Vineyards are often surrounded by ancient Holm oaks, shaping the landscape. The combination of cool nights and warm days allows for ripening without loss of fruit.

Vintage 2017: Balance and Maturity

Vintage 2017 was characterised by temperature fluctuations and optimised ripening. The vines were situated at 943 metres, experiencing daytime heat up to 40°C and cooler nights. The extreme environment led to intense ripening while retaining acidity. Careful selection ensures quality. The high altitude and poor soils fostered concentration. Vintage 2017 demonstrates how nature and winemaking can create a demanding wine.

Bottle and Label: Design and Tradition

The bottle of Ermita del Conde Tempranillo 2017 is classic, with dark glass to accentuate the red wine. The label is white, with a modern design featuring geometric patterns of light grey and red stripes. The design alludes to the region. "ERMITA DEL CONDE" is displayed in a large serif font, conveying an elegant character. "TEMPRANILLO" is in red lettering, with details "MAJUELLOS VIEJOS A 943 METROS" and "PARAJOS DE OTERO, VALDIGUEL". The cork is red with golden ornamentation, featuring the logo "EXC B".

Quality: Vino de la Tierra

Ermita del Conde Tempranillo 2017 carries the designation Vino de la Tierra Castilla y León, underscoring its quality and origin. This signifies that the wine originates from the region and meets certain standards. The soils foster concentration and depth. Old vines, soils, and careful production contribute to the high quality. The designation is a mark of distinction.

Price: Attractive Value

Ermita del Conde Tempranillo 2017 costs approximately €15, representing excellent value for money. This is in comparison to Ribera del Duero wines, which often cost twice as much. The quality is at least as good, but the price is more affordable. The combination of old vines, soils, and production contributes to the quality without inflating the price. It's an example of how a lower price doesn't necessarily mean lower quality.

Summary

Ermita del Conde Tempranillo 2017 is a powerful red wine from Castile and León, shaped by extreme altitude and poor soils. The grapes come from vines over 60 years old, planted on limestone soils. The wine is fermented in stainless steel and concrete tanks, aged for 15 months in French barriques. Colour: deep, dark purple with garnet hues. Palate: full-bodied, fresh acidity, fine tannins. Aromas: dark berries, licorice, and vanilla. Complex, spicy, powerful, a balance of fruit, acidity, and oak influence. The price of €15 offers excellent value compared to Ribera del Duero wines. The bottle and label are a testament to tradition and quality.

More info and to the store