2021-C Jimenez-Landi 'El Corralon' Red Wine, Sierra de Gredos, DO Méntrida, Spain (750ml)   

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A Monthly Wine Club Selection
Established in 1963, Bodegas Jiménez-Landi is a family-owned, boutique winery located in Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. With its romantic gardens and cave which date back to the 16th century (and was used by their ancestors who made wine in clay vats), the estate has always been passed down through the family along with its rich history of winemaking and viticulture. The estate vineyards are planted on the lower scrubland of DO Méntrida, and in the rugged hills around El Real de San Vincente. The majority of the vines are Grenache (with some small plots of Syrah and other varietals), and are managed by winemaker José B. Jiménez-Landi. The farming is completely biodynamic, to maintain balance with the local flora, and the wines are made with native yeasts and minimal additions. Always committed to biodiversity, sustainability and transparency in winemaking, Jiménez-Landi is at the forefront, pioneering end-to-end product traceability, from the vineyard to wine consumer.

A blend of 65% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the fruit for the 2021 El Corralón was sourced from 15-70-year-old vines, from plots perched over 2,000 feet above sea level on granitic soils. After a 4-day cold pre-maceration, the must (35% whole-cluster) underwent alcoholic fermentation with indigenous yeasts and at controlled temperature between 59°-71° F. Maceration lasted 20-30 days (depending on the plot), with gentle extraction by pumping over and racking.

Garnet red, this wine is expressive.  Aromas of ripe, brambly red and black fruit and sun-scorched earth. The palate is fruit-driven, juicy and well-balanced, with flavors of red currant, dark cherry compote and blackberry pie. Medium-bodied with tongue-coating, firm tannins through the long, peppery finish.