Wines Castilla Verum - Las Tinadas Cencibel - 2016

Verum's Cuvée Las Tinadas 2016 is a red wine hailing from Castilla, within the wider Castille-La Mancha region of Spain. The designation “Cencibel” refers to the local name for Tempranillo, a widely respected variety throughout the country, though exact blending details may vary. The 2016 vintage suggests a wine that has enjoyed a few years of bottle ageing, likely softening tannins and allowing secondary aromas and flavours to develop. Wines from this area are typically crafted with careful vinification to enhance the fruit character and preserve elegance, resulting in a supple, medium- to full-bodied style with notes that might include ripe cherry, plum, subtle spice, and earthy undertones.

Castille-La Mancha, sprawling across central Spain, is renowned for its vast plateaux and extreme continental climate, characterised by hot summers, cold winters, and substantial diurnal temperature shifts. Such conditions favour grape maturation, balancing ripeness with vital acidity. The region benefits from well-draining, often limestone-rich soils, imparting a distinct mineral freshness to the wines. With a winemaking heritage stretching back to Roman times, La Mancha is rapidly gaining recognition for quality-focused producers like Verum who champion authentic Spanish expressions.

For pairing, a wine such as this—structured yet approachable—shines alongside local Castilian cuisine. Consider roast lamb with herbs, Manchego cheese, or traditional dishes such as “pisto manchego” (a local ratatouille) or charcuterie with cured jamón. Internationally, it will complement grilled meats, beef stews, or mushroom risotto, each drawing out the wine’s depth and complexity.

Best enjoyed at 16-18°C, this wine will reward a brief decanting before serving, allowing its bouquet to open fully. Its maturity means it is drinking beautifully now, making it a thoughtful choice for convivial meals or quiet contemplation alike.