Wines Ribera del Duero Hacienda Vitulia - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Hacienda Vitulia 2022 from Ribera del Duero is a vibrant Spanish red wine that encapsulates the essence of its renowned region. Crafted primarily from the Tempranillo grape – locally referred to as Tinta del País – this youthful vintage offers the hallmarks of fresh, expressive fruit with a backbone that hints at its potential for gradual development. Ribera del Duero reds are celebrated for their beautiful deep colour, aromatic intensity, and harmonious structure. The vineyards here are typically planted on a mosaic of soils, ranging from chalk and limestone to clay and sand, contributing both finesse and power to the wines.

The region of Ribera del Duero, nestled along the upper stretch of the River Duero in Castilla y León, experiences a continental climate. Hot, dry summers followed by sharp, cold winters create significant diurnal temperature shifts, enhancing grape ripening while preserving acidity and aromatic complexity. This climate, combined with the region’s elevated vineyards – many situated between 750 and 950 metres above sea level – results in wines with concentrated flavours and remarkable balance. Ribera del Duero has a rich viticultural history dating back to Roman times, but its recognition as one of Spain’s premier wine regions has blossomed over the past few decades, placing it alongside Rioja as a benchmark for Spanish reds.

Such a dynamic and expressive wine pairs beautifully with hearty cuisine. Ribera del Duero reds are classic partners to roast lamb, a regional staple, and work splendidly with grilled meats, stews, and charcuterie. For a more traditional Spanish pairing, savour this wine with dishes like lechazo asado (oven-roasted suckling lamb) or morcilla (spiced blood sausage). The wine’s depth and fruit intensity also complement rich tomato-based dishes, aged cheeses such as Manchego, and mushroom ragouts.

For optimal enjoyment, decanting the wine for half an hour will allow its youthful aromas to open up. Serve it at a cool cellar temperature of 16–18°C to preserve its vibrancy while allowing its structure and complexity to shine on the palate.