Wines Ribera del Duero Dominio de Pingus - Flor de Pingus - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Dominio de Pingus Flor de Pingus 2021 is an exceptional red wine from the Ribera del Duero DO in Castilla y León, Spain. Crafted mainly from the Tempranillo grape (locally called Tinto Fino), this cuvée reflects a careful selection from old vines, often between 35 to 60 years of age. The 2021 vintage is notable for its balanced growing season, allowing the grapes to achieve perfect phenolic maturity without overripeness. The vinification process involves natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts, followed by ageing in French oak barrels—some new, but mostly used to showcase fruit purity over overt wood influence. The resulting wine is deep-coloured, with an opulent nose of ripe blackberries, violets, and hints of liquorice, complemented by subtle spicy and mineral undertones. The palate is rich and concentrated, yet remarkably fresh and elegant, showing polished tannins and a persistent, nuanced finish.

Ribera del Duero is one of Spain’s most revered wine regions, situated along the golden stretch of the Duero River. The area’s continental climate is marked by hot summers, cold winters, and significant day-night temperature variations, which contribute to the grapes’ aromatic complexity and structure. The region’s soils are a mix of clay, limestone, and gravel, providing excellent drainage and mineral character. Viticulture has flourished here since Roman times, but the modern reputation surged in the late 20th century, with estates like Pingus gaining cult status for their commitment to meticulous vineyard management and minimal-intervention winemaking.

Flor de Pingus pairs beautifully with rich, savoury dishes. Traditional Castilian roast lamb or suckling pig are outstanding choices, but the wine’s intensity also complements beef wellington, venison, or grilled ribeye. For a regional match, try it with lechazo asado (roast milk-fed lamb) or morcilla de Burgos (spiced blood sausage). Alternatively, hard Spanish cheeses like Manchego or Zamorano provide a superb contrast to the wine’s fruit and structure.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Flor de Pingus 2021 at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour is advisable to allow the wine’s aromatics and texture to unfold. This wine can age gracefully for ten years or more, but offers immense pleasure even in its youth.