Crianza Blanco Dominio del Soto 2021
Why it's worth a try
This is Albillo Mayor given serious white-wine energy. Sourced from 850–1,000 m terraces in Ribera del Duero’s harsh climate, it’s fermented slowly in 300L oak and stainless steel, aged 11 months on lees. The wine lands richly, with ripe stone fruit, white blossoms, and grapefruit, then eases into a rosemary-tinged, salty-fresh finish that feels both elegant and raw.
Dominio del Soto
Young and Restless in the Mountains
Dominio del Soto is a standout in Ribera del Duero: a youngish yet terroir‑obsessed winery launched in 2005 in Sotillo de la Ribera. Mathilde Chapoutier (yes, daughter of biodynamics legend Michel Chapoutier) discovered this rugged high‑plateau vineyard and knew she had to bring it to life. It sprawls across 16 hectares of organically farmed terraces at 850–900 m elevation, on rich clay‑ and marly‑limestone soils with pockets of sand. The brutal summers, freezing winters, and big day‑night swings give their wines serious backbone. They’re currently working toward full biodynamic conversion.
These are not airy Ribera whites or overly oaky reds. Picture concentrated, juicy Tempranillo wines, ripe black fruit, smooth tannins, subtle vanilla, and ideally suited to both laid‑back tapas and grilling sessions. The lineup spans roble, crianza, and whites made from Albillo Mayor, all balanced, honest, and terroir‑forward.
WINE REGION
Ribera del Duero: Spain's Bold Red Frontier
Ribera del Duero is a prestigious DO in northern Spain, known for its robust red wines made primarily from the Tempranillo grape.
Tempranillo, locally known as Tinto Fino, produces wines with deep color, intense fruit flavors, and significant aging potential.
The high-altitude vineyards on clay-limestone soils experience extreme temperature variations, leading to wines with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity.