Pago de Carraovejas 2023 750ml

Product Info

Terroir
Pago de Carraovejas is situated along the slopes outside Peñafiel in Ribera del Duero, where vineyards sit between 750–900 meters above sea level. This high-altitude plateau experiences a markedly continental climate: hot, dry summers contrasted by cold winters and dramatic diurnal shifts that preserve acidity and aromatic definition.

The soils are a mix of limestone, clay, and sandy marl, providing both structure and drainage. These poor, well-draining soils naturally limit vigor, concentrating the fruit while retaining a mineral backbone. The 2023 growing season delivered healthy yields and steady ripening conditions, producing grapes of depth, clarity, and balanced phenolic maturity.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
The wine is predominantly Tempranillo (locally known as Tinto Fino), complemented by small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to enhance structure and aromatic complexity. Grapes are hand harvested and meticulously sorted before fermentation in stainless steel and oak vats.

Extraction is carefully managed to achieve richness without excess heaviness. The wine is aged in French and American oak barrels, a portion of which are new, for approximately 12 months, followed by additional bottle refinement prior to release. The oak integration is calibrated to support the fruit while adding textural polish and spice.

Alcohol levels are characteristic of the region but remain well balanced by the wine’s natural acidity and tannic framework.

Tasting Notes
The 2023 pours a deep, opaque ruby with violet highlights. Aromatically, it opens with ripe blackberry, black cherry, and plum layered over notes of vanilla, clove, cocoa, and subtle toast. Hints of graphite, cedar, and dried herbs add depth.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and structured, yet remarkably smooth. Dark fruit concentration is framed by ripe, finely grained tannins and fresh acidity that lends lift and length. Oak-derived notes of sweet spice and espresso integrate seamlessly into the fruit core.

The finish is long and persistent, carrying black fruit, spice, and a subtle mineral edge.

Food Pairing & Service
Serve at 60–65°F and decant for at least one hour when young. The wine pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, roasted pork shoulder, ribeye steak, or Manchego cheese. It also complements slow-cooked stews and dishes featuring smoked paprika or rosemary.

Its combination of power and polish makes it versatile alongside both rustic and refined cuisine.

Cellaring & Longevity
The 2023 Ribera del Duero possesses the structure and concentration to age gracefully for 12–18 years. While approachable in its youth with proper decanting, optimal drinking is expected from 2026 onward.

Over time, primary dark fruit will evolve toward notes of leather, tobacco, and earthy spice, gaining nuance while maintaining its firm core. Properly cellared, it will reward patience with increasing complexity and elegance through the late 2030s.