Mas Oliveras Tempranillo Bodegas Roqueta 2018

Description

Introduction

Soft and approachable 100% Tempranillo, from the historic, family run Bodegas Roqueta in the Catalonian Pyrenees.

Background

‘Mas Oliveras’ is a range of wines created by the historic Bodegas Roqueta. The bodega was founded by Ramon Roqueta, who planted vines on ancient olive groves (‘oliveras’) in the foothills of the Catalonian Pyrenees northwest of Barcelona. This area has its own unique microclimate capable of producing very high quality grapes:

the high altitude (up to 400m ASL) creates significant day/night temperature swings, which allow the vines a rest period thus promoting delicate aromas and flavours along with full phenolic grape ripeness. Furthermore, the vineyards’ location in the lee of the Pyrenees protects the vineyards from Atlantic depressions, while to the East, the Mediterranean sea tempers climatic extremes. Today the bodega is owned and run by Ramon’s great grandchildren, who have also set up a museum in honour of Catalonia’s wine heritage.

Vineyard Information

Location In the foothills of the Pyrenees near Manresa, northwest of Barcelona.

Vines Vines are mature (around 15 years old) and yields are low for the area, further enhancing quality.

Climate A combination of high altitude and the resulting cool temperatures, the proximity to the Mediterranean, and the shelter offered by the mountains allow grapes to ripen to the best of their ability.

Soil A mix of gravel and clay, with excellent drainage and a deep water table- a further positive for grape quality.

Philosophy Production is ‘sustainable’ whereby use of chemicals is strictly limited to respect the balance of the vineyard and the overall health of the vines.

Winemaking Details

Grape variety 100% Tempranillo.

Winemaker Is Tony Soler, who trained in Spain and has worked with the Bodega for several years.

Fermentation Takes place in stainless steel tanks at 26C, with cold maceration for 15 days, with the aim of preserving the primary fruit and spice characters typical of  Tempranillo grown here.

Maturation Ageing takes place in American oak barrels (1 year old) for a period of 3-4 months to enhance the structure of the wine, lift the spicy notes and provides a foil to the bright primary fruit.  

Tasting Note

Bright ruby-violet colour. Intense and scented on the nose, with undertones of ripe strawberries and liquorice. The palate offers supple, fresh summer berry and black fruit flavours, soft rich textures and a warm finish.

Summary