Bodegas Dominio de Cair, Cair Pendon de la Aguilera, Ribera del Duero, Spain, 2021

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

Sourced from eight exclusive micro-plots, each averaging just 0.5 hectares, planted between 1920 and 1959 in the renowned municipalities of La Aguilera and Quintana del Pidio. Nestled at an impressive average altitude of 850 meters, these old vines thrive on unique sandy and clay soils spread across gently sloping terraces with a subtle eastern exposure. With meticulously low yields of just 800 kg/ha, these vineyards produce grapes of exceptional concentration and character—capturing the true essence of their extraordinary terroir.

Winemaking

Hand-harvested with precision into small 11 kg boxes to preserve the grapes’ freshness, the fruit undergoes a cold pre-fermentation maceration that intensifies its vibrant expression. A meticulous double sorting process ensures only the finest grapes are selected. Fermentation takes place in concrete tanks, enhancing texture and purity, followed by 18 months of aging in carefully chosen 225 and 500-litre French oak barrels, where the wine develops elegant complexity and depth.

Tasting Note

A vibrant deep cherry red, clear and bright, that immediately catches the eye. The nose is both intense and complex, unveiling layers of spicy warmth, delicate floral aromas, fresh balsamic hints, and evocative notes of Mediterranean scrubland. On the palate, the wine greets you with a smooth and inviting entry, bursting with expressive ripe fruit flavours. This richness is beautifully balanced by silky tannins and a refreshing acidity, creating a harmonious and elegant finish that lingers long after the last sip.

Food Matching

Its spicy and balsamic notes complement herb-infused dishes, like rosemary roasted chicken or grilled vegetables. It also pairs wonderfully with aged cheeses like Manchego or Pecorino.