Wines Ribera del Duero Bodegas Vizcarra - Venta Las Vacas - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The 2021 Cuvée Venta Las Vacas from Bodegas Vizcarra is a compelling expression of Ribera del Duero's robust red wines. This wine is crafted predominantly from the Tempranillo grape, known locally as Tinta del País. The terroir of Ribera del Duero is a patchwork of high-altitude vineyards that benefit from the extremes of a continental climate, featuring hot, dry summers and cold winters. The region's clay-limestone soils, with their excellent drainage, further contribute to the complex structure and intense flavour profile of the wines produced here. Vinification at Bodegas Vizcarra is a careful balance of tradition and innovation, ensuring that the wine retains the hallmark structure and depth expected from this prestigious area.

Castilla y León, and specifically Ribera del Duero, is steeped in winemaking history, with vineyards established since Roman times. The extreme diurnal temperature variations help in developing rich and concentrated wines with good acidity and ageing potential. This region saw a renaissance in the 1980s and has since become synonymous with high-quality, age-worthy reds.

The Cuvée Venta Las Vacas is a versatile companion at the dining table. Its deep fruit flavours and well-integrated tannins pair excellently with robust dishes such as roasted lamb, grilled beef, or game meats. For a taste of local cuisine, try it with a traditional lechazo asado (roast suckling lamb) or morcilla de Burgos (blood sausage). The wine's tannic backbone and fruitiness also complement hard cheeses like Manchego.

To fully enjoy this wine's nuances, it is best served at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for about an hour before serving will help to aerate the wine, releasing its aromatic bouquet and softening the tannins, ensuring a more rounded and harmonious tasting experience.