Corral de Campanas 2018 – Quinta de la Quietud

Quinta de la Quietud is located in Toro, in the northwest of Spain. The continental climate is extreme. Dry, hot summers, very little rainfall and a moderate influence from the Atlantic. This contrasts with very cold winters at high altitudes and strong fluctuations between day and night. These are conditions that are also familiar in a similar form from Rioja or Ribera del Duero and are ideal for Tempranillo. Tempranillo is called Tinta de Toro here. The Spanish grape variety par excellence feels very comfortable in these extremes.

26 hectares of own vineyards are in production. The vines were planted between 2000 and 2004, and organic certification took place in 2002. The soils are based on sand with a layer of gravel. In the subsoil, the sand is very loose and light. There is hardly any compaction. The drainage is therefore excellent and the vines naturally root deeply.

2018 Corral de Campanas does not really have to hide behind its big brother, La Mula. A completely independent wine that has its merits and is a great pleasure to drink, especially young. It is not designed for storage and delivers great drinking pleasure from the first sip. The spontaneous fermentation took place in open stainless steel tanks. Only for ageing 50% are stored in American oak barriques. A maximum of 20% of the barrels are in first fill. The second half remains in steel tanks, but undergoes targeted micro-oxidation and regular battonage.

Deep purple, violet reflections

The single-varietal Tempranillo shows itself here in a full-bodied, dense version. The nose is inviting and charming. Sweet cherries, plum and cassis spread out in the glass. Many floral, fragrant notes of violets, hibiscus and pansies join in. From the spice rack, cinnamon, clove, cardamom and white pepper seem to find their way into the glass. Graphite provides a cool impression and liquorice the dark spice with a slight aniseed kick. Very stimulating nose.

On the palate, it is perfectly balanced. The grape variety of the Spanish north lives, besides the dark spice, above all from acidity, potential minerality and longevity. The fruit is expansive and lining. Its minerality comes into its own and provides plenty of finesse on the palate. The acid pressure now sets in properly and drives the enjoyment. Subtle smoky notes stand wonderfully next to the fruit. Despite all the intensity, it appears elegant and uncomplicated. It is enormously juicy in the glass. The acidity really packs a punch and makes sip after sip a pleasure. Because of its youth, this is strikingly nice to drink.