Alejandro Fernandez began his winemaking career without any formal education. His foresight to reignite the old vineyards of Ribera del Duero has brought international fame for many in the region.
The Bodegas Pesquera (1972) and Condada de Hazo (1995) aren’t small but still dwarf his 3rd estate near Zamorra in Toro. This D.O was established in 1987, and like many Spanish regions, produced huge amounts of wine for export to France during the phylloxera crisis (end of 19th century). The resistant old vines of Tinta de Toro (a Tempranillo clone) still stand out today.
The estate covers over 2,000 hectares and has about 600 planted with vines. In the mid 18th century men dug up tunnels (over 3000 m2) which houses today’s vintages before release. Since Senor Tempranillo is in no rush, it is us the consumer who benefits from th extended bottle maturation. What differentiates Toro from both Ribera del Duero and Rioja is the meatiness in the aromatic profile. Combined with black pepper, nutmeg and cherry liqueur it is certainly quite enticing.
“Deep ruby. A complex, perfumed bouquet evokes dark berries, cola, smoked meat and mint. Supple and expansive on the palate, offering gently sweet blackberry and cherry-cola flavors that are firmed and lifted by juicy acidity. The smoky note repeats on the finish, which hangs on with very good tenacity and a whisper of fine-grained tannins. A fine effort for the vintage and delicious right now.” 91 points Josh Raynolds for Vinous