Leda Viñas Viejas

The grapes for Leda Viñas Viejas come from different Duero Valley estates where, in them all, the Tempranillo is planted in very high concentrations, aiming for low yields and maximum expression of the grape. Once inside the winery, Eduardo García, son of the maestro Mariano García (Vega Sicilia, Mauro, Aalto), oversees the whole production process. Before wines are conveyed to the barrels in order to undergo malolactic fermentation, the grapes from each estate are fermented separately in stainless steel so as to produce a clear-cut profile of every individual location. After an ageing period of almost two years in oak, a mere 8,000 bottles of this gem will see the light of day.

On opening a bottle of Leda Viñas Viejas, we find a Tempranillo made from old vines (between 50 and 100 years old), appearing a stunning Picota cherry colour with violet hues on the rim. It looks simply lovely, already a winner, showing plenty of slow, tinted tears. The first sensation on the nose is extremely fresh and intense, very balsamic, with hints of liquorice and eucalyptus. The aromas of very ripe red and black fruit take pride of place overall, complemented by suggestions of white pepper, vanilla, coffee, toasty oak touches and India ink hints that indicate minerality. On the palate, its firm yet polished tannins offer a wonderful dash of fine cocoa. It's powerful and elegant, not an easy combination to obtain, something only reserved for great wines. It's rounded, having fullness and depth, concentrated and packed with nuances. It's aftertaste lasts for minutes and it lingers long inside the mouth. Definitely a magnificent wine that makes a lasting impression.