Bodegas Vatan - Toro Vatan 2021

Traditional dry farmed viticulture. Practicing organic gobelet (vaso) trained vines, cultivated completely by hand.

Rigorous sorting is followed by gentle destemming. The whole berries are transferred to 3,000L stainless-steel temperature-controlled open vats. Fermentation starts with a pied de cuve, and maceration lasts between six and eight days. Gentle press in a vertical basket press for eight hours. Primary fermentation finishes and malolactic begins spontaneously in 20% new, 80% used Bordelaise and Burgundian barrique. The wine rests in barrel for 20 to 22 months.

“The 2021 Vatan Tinta de Toro opens with aromas of violets, lavender, fresh plum and raspberry, framed by subtle oak and a touch of cedar. Intense and creamy, the palate is broad and flavorful, with velvety, finely textured tannins. The finish is long, delivering depth and nuance. This is a balanced and elegant Tempranillo with a measured profile. Tannins show gentle grip, bringing tension that complements the wine’s volume and richness. A superb vintage that lends this wine exceptional depth.” - 96 Points, Vinous

“The 2021 Vatan is from a region of rustic wineries that has since come into its own due to the tremendous potential of the old, ungrafted vineyards, like Finca los Quemados, the source here, planted in 1900 on original rootstock. This full-bodied wine is concentrated in dark berry fruit, black licorice, and a lightness of baking spice and cedar, the sultry layers surrounded by sweet, velvety tannins. The structure for additional aging is there even after 20 months in barrel and a year in bottle; enjoy best 2029-2036.” - 94 Points, Jeb Dunnuck