Nuevemeses

This is an inexpensive estate-bottled red blend from Bodegas Grupo Yllera of Spain.  Yllera is a formidable operation that markets wines from several appellations in Spain, all within the largest wine region of the European Union, Castilla y Leon.  This tract overlays the northern half of the Meseta Central plateau, one-fifth of the land mass of Spain, extending from Rioja to the east to Portugal to the west.  Nuevemeses is the entry level offering in what they call their classic line of red wines from Castilla y Leon.  

The key wine grape of the region is Tempranillo.  Nuevemeses is 91% Tempranillo with the remainder being some combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah.  The wine has a cherry red color with purple highlights with a complex nose featuring red fruits, plum and chocolate.  On the palate darker berry flavors emerge with pepper, vanilla and toast.  In the mouth the wine is soft, round and elegant.

Castilla y Leon has a two thousand year history of winemaking.  Its continental climate features hot dry summers and sharp cold winters.  The region is sheltered by mountains from the temperature-moderating Atlantic Ocean so the diurnal effect of day/night temperature swings is in full effect.  This temperature swing maximizes the inherent grape aromas and minimizes oxidation in the rich red wines of the region.  Night harvesting of grapes captures those grapes at their best.

What makes Nuevemeses a red wine worth trying?  Aside from what we've already said above, the winemaking includes an extended fourteen day maceration with daily pumping before undergoing malolactic fermentation in stainless steel.  Then the wine sees time in American oak barrels before further aging in the bottle.  Folks, when considered with what we know of the region, this bespeaks quality winemaking.  Enjoy this one with your steak, hamburgers or really anything you would like.