Vintus

M2 de Matallana, Ribera del Duero

Part of the Ribera del Duero vineyards for Telmo Rodriguez’ wines are in the area of Parilla. These estate vineyards are a combination of old vines and new plantings, on north facing slopes (moderating heat stress), at an altitude of 3,000 feet. The red soils have strong mineral, chalk and quartz components, are farmed biodynamically, and are plowed only by two horses. Telmo considers this vineyard as having the best vineyard site in the region.

Another important estate vineyard used in making the Ribera del Dueros is called Fuente Molinos, made up of 10 acres of contiguous vineyards painstakingly pieced together from land purchases from 34 owners. Formerly the bottom of a river, Fuente Molinos is characterized by stone deposits on the surface, with increasing chalk intensity deeper into the soils.

The second wine to Matallana, this wine is a blend of some of the exceptional Matallana barrels together with grapes from the vineyards in Roa and Fuentecén. The varying soils of these vineyards produce Tempranillo with different characteristics, and make for a complex final blend.

This fine and docile Ribera del Duero has great quality tannins that express Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) in a subtle fashion. Aged 14 months in 50% new French Oak barrels, Telmo’s objective is for the wine to express the extravagence of the various soils, brushed with soft and fleshy tannins.

2004 Vintage Reviews
“Elegant and austere, this polished red shows flashes of black cherry, mineral, game and espresso, solidly structured yet well-balanced. Deftly made but needs time to express itself. Best after 2008.” 91 Wine Spectator, April 2008