Bodegas Dominio de Cair, Cair Seleccion de la Aquilera, Ribera del Duero, Spain, 2020

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 convention in one of the most exciting and celebrated wine regions of Spain. Here, the vineyards blend harmoniously with the surrounding forests at nearly 900m above sea level, with each plot plot seldom exceeding 0.5ha. The average age of the vines is 45 years, with some between 50 and 100 years old, thereby contributing depth complexity, and character to the grapes they bear. This is a truly exceptional terroir, where the wines reflect the soul of the land itself – crafted with passion, tradition and a profound respect for nature.

Viticulture

These Tempranillo vineyards, over 45 years old, are located in the municipality of La Aguilera at elevations exceeding 820 meters. Planted on slopes and terraces with diverse exposures, the vines benefit from optimal sun and wind conditions that contribute to the complexity of the grapes. The surrounding landscape—characterised by low pine and oak forests—not only enhances biodiversity but also creates a unique microclimate that influences the character of the fruit. This natural environment, combined with the age of the vines, results in grapes of exceptional concentration and expression.

Winemaking

Grapes are hand-harvested into 11 kg boxes and undergo a pre-fermentation maceration at 5ºC in a refrigerated chamber to enhance fruit expression. A meticulous double sorting process ensures only the finest grapes are selected. Both alcoholic and malolactic fermentations take place in stainless steel tanks, followed by 14 months of aging in second-use French and American oak barrels.

Tasting Note

A gastronomic wine with a deep cherry red colour and violet hues along the rim. The nose is complex and expressive, revealing layers of black fruit, floral tones, balsamic hints, and notes reminiscent of Mediterranean scrubland. It captures the distinct character of high-altitude Ribera, with floral aromas and vibrant acidity. Authentic and multifaceted, this wine is a true expression of its terroir.

Food Matching

The structure and acidity complement roasted lamb, suckling pig, or grilled Iberian pork. The floral and balsamic nuances make it an excellent match for mushroom-based dishes, truffle-infused risottos.