Bodegas Dominio de Cair, Cair Cuvée, Ribera del Duero, Spain, 2022

Producer Profile

The Luis Cañas Family has uncovered a remarkable gem in the small town of La Aguilera, nestled within the prestigious DO Ribera del Duero.

This authentic and rustic land offers a refreshing departure from the conventional—a unique landscape that stands out in one of the most exciting and celebrated wine regions of Spain. Here, vineyards blend harmoniously with surrounding forests at nearly 900 meters above sea level, where each plot is intimate, rarely exceeding half a hectare. The average age of our vines is approximately 45 years, with many venerable plants ranging between 50 and 100 years old—each contributing depth, complexity, and character to the grapes they bear. This is truly an exceptional terroir, where the wines reflect the soul and authenticity of the land itself—crafted with passion, tradition, and a profound respect for nature.

Viticulture

These vineyards, boasting an average age of 25 years, are carefully cultivated across two distinct locations: the charming town of La Aguilera, situated at altitudes between 820 and 850 meters, and Moradillo de Roa, perched higher at 960 meters above sea level. The elevation and unique microclimates of these sites provide ideal conditions for slow, balanced grape ripening, enhancing the concentration and complexity of the fruit. Together, these vineyards offer a diverse expression of terroir that reflects the rich viticultural heritage of the region.

Winemaking

The grapes are carefully hand-harvested into 11 kg boxes to preserve their integrity and freshness. Upon arrival at the winery, they undergo a rigorous selection process on a double sorting table to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. The alcoholic fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, allowing for precise management of aromas and flavours. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 10 months in carefully chosen used oak barrels, where it develops additional complexity and subtle oak nuances while maintaining its vibrant fruit character.

Tasting Note

A captivating deep cherry red. The nose is intense and expressive, bursting with vibrant red fruit and delicate floral aromas. On the palate, it’s lively and refreshing, with bright acidity perfectly balanced by soft, silky Merlot tannins. Subtle spicy notes weave seamlessly with the fruit, creating a harmonious and memorable tasting experience.

Food Matching

This will pair beautifully with mild to medium cheeses like Brie or Camembert, as well as dishes featuring mushrooms, soft herbs, and light spices.