Castro Ventosa Valtuille Cepas Centenarias 2021

The 2021 vintage of one of Bierzo's most prized treasures surprised the region's most loyal followers and has already been crowned by Luis Gutiérrez, critic for The Wine Advocate. From century-old vines with very low yields comes this delight, with an intense perfume and a deep, persistent palate. A Castilian jewel for your cellar.

The Wine Advocate
RP 97+

Reviewed by: Luis Gutiérrez

The 1999 Valtuille Cepas Centenarias old-vine cuvée was their first great wine, but in 2021 it comes from a single vineyard in Mata Los Pardos, on clay and sandy soils, planted with the traditional Mencía field blend typical of the oldest vineyards. It fermented with 30% whole clusters and indigenous yeasts in oak vats, with a 60-day maceration, and aged in 225- and 500-litre oak barrels for a year.

It has a moderate 13% alcohol and balanced acidity. The wine is really complex and harmonious, a little more austere than the Villegas or the Rapolao, perhaps a little more rustic, with an earthy touch.

Valtuille Cepas Centenarias 2021 — 98 points from James Suckling

A wine that clearly ranks among the world's greats, according to the critic's review.

Aromatic Profile
An intense, multi-faceted nose, with ripe blue fruit, floral violet notes, enveloping spice and an elegant mineral streak reminiscent of graphite.

On the Palate
Full-bodied, yet remarkably elegant. The texture is rich and enveloping, supported by fine, silky, perfectly integrated tannins, giving structure without heaviness.

Finish
Long and full of energy, with striking persistence and a freshness that balances the depth of old-vine fruit.

Overall Impression
An exceptional wine, already very expressive now, but with clear ability to develop and gain complexity over the coming years.