Wines Ribera del Duero Campo De Borja - Ermita de San Lorenzo - 2018

Viniou Reviews

The 2018 Cuvée Ermita de San Lorenzo comes from the renowned Ribera del Duero DO, within Spain’s prestigious Castille and León region. This red wine—despite the mention of Campo De Borja, which is actually a separate Spanish appellation—is a product more commonly associated with Ribera del Duero, a territory famed for its full-bodied and complex reds, primarily crafted from Tempranillo (locally known as Tinto Fino or Tinta del País). While the specifics of the blend and vinification method aren't indicated, one can expect this cuvée to exhibit the hallmarks of Ribera del Duero: intense ripe dark fruit flavours—think black cherry, plum, and blackberry—layered with subtle vanilla, toasted oak, and spice derived from ageing in oak barrels. The 2018 vintage generally benefited from favourable weather, which allowed the fruit to achieve optimal ripeness, resulting in balanced wines with firm tannins and impressive aging potential.

Ribera del Duero is situated along the Duero River, at altitudes between 750 and 900 metres. The continental climate, with its hot summers, cold winters, and significant diurnal temperature shifts, is vital for the grapes to develop both structure and aromatic complexity. Soils here range from clay-limestone to sandy and alluvial deposits, lending further nuance to the regional wines. The appellation’s dramatic landscape and rigorous standards have propelled it to international prestige over the past few decades, rivalling even Rioja in reputation.

A wine of this stature, with its depth and robust character, pairs beautifully with a range of hearty dishes. Roasted or grilled red meats—such as Spanish lamb, aged beef, or even wild game—highlight the wine’s boldness. Regional cuisine, like lechazo asado (roast suckling lamb) or morcilla de Burgos (spiced blood sausage), provides a classic match, enhancing the wine’s earthy undertones. Aged Manchego cheese also works wonderfully, accentuating the wine's structure and length.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for at least an hour is highly recommended to allow the aromas and flavours to fully express themselves. This 2018 cuvée is drinking well now but will also reward further cellaring for several years.