Wines Ribera del Duero Durón - Crianza - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Durón Crianza 2021 hails from the esteemed appellation of Ribera del Duero in Castille and León, Spain. This red wine, marked as a "Crianza," spends a minimum of 12 months ageing in oak barrels followed by further bottle maturation, which imparts an elegant balance of fruit and spice. The predominant grape here is Tempranillo (locally known as Tinto Fino), hallmark of the region, often crafted as a single varietal or in blends with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, although this cuvée remains firmly rooted in Tempranillo’s expressive nature. The 2021 vintage benefited from an excellent growing season with optimal conditions, allowing the grapes to reach full phenolic maturity, resulting in a wine of depth and structure. Expect a nose laden with ripe blackberries, dark cherries, hints of vanilla, toasted oak, and subtle undertones of spices like clove and nutmeg, while the palate delivers firm but polished tannins and a lingering, savoury finish.

Ribera del Duero’s unique character stems from a high-altitude plateau traversed by the Duero river, where vineyards frequently sit between 700 and 850 metres above sea level. This elevation, combined with the region’s continental climate—hot, dry summers and sharp diurnal shifts—slows grape ripening, ensuring vibrancy and freshness alongside concentrated flavours. The soils here are rich in limestone, clay, and silt, endowing the wines with a distinct minerality and age-worthiness. The region has a storied past, going back to the Roman era, though it only rose to global prominence in recent decades, now challenging Rioja as Spain’s leading red wine territory.

With its robust profile and harmonious oak integration, Durón Crianza 2021 pairs splendidly with roasted lamb—a local specialty—grilled chorizo sausages, or hearty stews like "cordero lechal." The wine also elevates classic Spanish tapas such as jamón ibérico, Manchego cheese, and patatas bravas. For a wider culinary reach, try it alongside herb-encrusted beef, mushroom risotto, or aubergine parmigiana.

To best appreciate the complexity of this Crianza, serve slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will help open up the aromatics and soften the texture, allowing you to fully savour its depth.