2019  Viñas Serranas Ciclon Rufete

Variety: Rufete plus

Region of Origin: Sierra de Salamanca, Spain

Tasting Notes

The wine is fresh, light-hearted and full of flavour. The colour is deep ruby red with vibrant purple hues. The aroma is complex and layered, with a mix of ripe red fruits like cherry and raspberry, along with subtle earthy notes of forest floor and tobacco. There is a touch of spice, including black pepper, along with hints of dried herbs, violets, and a slight smokiness from oak aging. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, with juicy red fruit flavours of plum, strawberry, and red cherry. These are balanced by a savory profile, with earthy undertones and a slight minerality, typical of the high-altitude Sierra de Salamanca terroir. The tannins are smooth but present, providing structure and supporting the rich fruit

Wine Making

The winemaker is Juan Manuel González, who is known for his commitment to showcasing the unique terroir of the Sierra de Salamanca region. He focuses on crafting wines that reflect the local grape varieties, particularly Rufete, while emphasizing minimal intervention winemaking to allow the natural characteristics of the grapes and the environment to shine. His approach blends traditional methods with modern techniques to produce wines that are expressive, fresh, and full of character.

The Vineyard

The vineyards of Viñas Serranas are situated in the Sierra de Salamanca, an area known for its high altitudes, which range between 800 and 1,100 meters (2,600 to 3,600 feet) above sea level. These elevations result in significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, which helps preserve the acidity in the grapes, contributing to the freshness and balance of the wines. The region is characterized by poor, rocky soils and a continental climate with both Mediterranean and Atlantic influences. The combination of these elements – including well-draining soils, a dry growing season, and cool temperatures – leads to grapes that are concentrated in flavour while maintaining bright acidity.

 The vineyards are planted on terraced slopes, with many of the vines growing in small, family-owned plots. The winery focuses on organic and biodynamic practices, ensuring that the vineyards are farmed in harmony with the environment. There is a focus on minimal intervention in the vineyard, with natural fertilizers and pest control methods used to maintain soil health and biodiversity. One of the key aspects of the vineyards is the emphasis on the Rufete grape, which is native to the region. Rufete is a late-ripening, thin-skinned grape that produces wines with vibrant acidity, moderate tannins, and expressive fruit and herbal notes. The winery also grows a small amount of other indigenous varieties, but Rufete is the flagship grape for Viñas Serranas.