Wines Ribera del Duero Bodegas Vilano - Terra Incognita - 2020

Viniou Reviews

The Bodegas Vilano "Cuvée Terra Incognita" 2020 from Ribera del Duero is a fine example of contemporary Spanish winemaking. This red wine is crafted predominantly from Tempranillo, the flagship grape of the region, known locally as Tinta del País or Tinto Fino. The 2020 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, with sufficient rainfall and a warm summer yielding ripe fruit of excellent quality. The wine undergoes traditional vinification with a careful maceration to extract colour and tannins, followed by ageing in oak barrels to add complexity and finesse. Its deep garnet colour hints at intensity, while on the nose, it offers classic Tempranillo aromas of blackberries, ripe plums, sweet spices, and subtle vanilla from oak integration. The palate is structured and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins, vibrant acidity, and a persistent, elegant finish.

Ribera del Duero, located in Castille and León in northern Spain, has earned a stellar reputation for producing some of the country’s most esteemed red wines. The region benefits from a continental climate, marked by hot summers, cold winters, and considerable diurnal temperature shifts, which contribute to the grape’s slow ripening and the development of intense aromas and flavours. Vineyards are often situated on limestone and clay soils at high altitudes, providing excellent drainage and promoting the concentration of fruit, structure, and freshness in the wines. The Ribera del Duero DO, established in 1982, is steeped in tradition but equally open to innovation, as showcased by cuvées like Terra Incognita.

This wine’s robust profile pairs beautifully with hearty Spanish dishes such as roast lamb (lechazo asado), morcilla (blood sausage), or grilled Iberian pork. It also complements mushroom stews, aged Manchego cheese, and even international classics like beef Wellington or venison. Its structure and savoury character enhance earthy and well-seasoned meat dishes, while the wine’s inherent fruitiness balances stronger flavours. For the optimal experience, serve the Bodegas Vilano Terra Incognita 2020 at 16-18°C. Decanting for at least an hour before serving is recommended to allow its aromatic complexity to fully express itself. Enjoy it now for its vibrancy, or cellar it for several years to gain further nuance and depth.