Dominio de Es La Mata 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Dominio de Es La Mata is sourced from the renowned Ribera del Duero region, specifically from the valley of Atauta in Soria, at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters above sea level. This high-altitude vineyard, known as La Mata, spans a modest 0.33 hectares and is composed of pre-phylloxeric vines over 100 years old. The vineyard's soils are a mix of sandy, silty limestone over clay, which, combined with the harsh climatic conditions of extreme temperatures and significant diurnal variation, contribute to the wine's complexity and intensity​.

The Ribera del Duero region is famed for its rigorous climate, where the combination of hot summers and cold winters, along with substantial temperature differences between day and night, ensures the grapes develop a rich concentration of flavors while retaining a refreshing acidity. This unique terroir, enriched by the diversity of soil compositions and the careful management of ancient vines, sets the stage for producing wines of exceptional depth and character.

Winemaking

The Dominio de Es La Mata 2020 is a blend primarily of 93% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo), with 6% Albillo and 1% Alicante Bouchet. The grapes are carefully hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness and quality. Once harvested, the berries are 100% destemmed and undergo a meticulous vinification process that includes a 54-day maceration at controlled temperatures ranging from 15 to 27ºC. This extended maceration allows for the full extraction of flavors, colors, and tannins, contributing to the wine's robust structure and complexity​.

The aging process is equally meticulous, with the wine being aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels. This dual-barrel approach imparts subtle nuances of vanilla and spice, enhancing the wine's aromatic profile and adding layers of complexity. The careful balance of oak influence ensures that the wine's inherent fruit character remains prominent, providing a harmonious and integrated flavor experience.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Very deep cherry red, indicating a wine of substantial concentration and depth.
• Aroma: The nose is intriguing and complex, featuring notes of roasted coffee, aromatic herbs, and a blend of red and black berries. Subtle hints of licorice, violet, and black sesame add further depth, creating a rich and inviting aromatic profile.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is dense and dry, with a chalky texture that highlights its structure and balance. It showcases robust flavors of ripe fruits and a smoky aftertaste, with round tannins that provide a smooth yet firm mouthfeel. The finish is long and mineral, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and power​.

Did you know?

Did you know? The La Mata vineyard, where the Dominio de Es La Mata originates, has a unique streak of clay in its otherwise sandy and limestone-rich soils. This specific plot, registered since 1904, is currently undergoing organic certification, reflecting the winery's commitment to sustainable practices. The dedication to preserving these ancient vines and their unique terroir underscores the wine's exceptional quality and distinct character​.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary: The wine’s robust tannins and rich fruit flavors enhance the savory and herbal notes of the lamb, creating a harmonious balance that highlights the dish's complexity.
• Manchego Cheese: The acidity and fruit profile of the Dominio de Es La Mata balance the creamy, nutty flavors of this traditional Spanish cheese, providing a delightful contrast that elevates both the wine and the cheese.
• Wild Mushroom Risotto: The earthy undertones of the wine complement the umami-rich mushrooms, enhancing the dish’s depth and complexity while providing a luxurious pairing experience.
• Iberico Ham: The wine's acidity cuts through the rich, fatty texture of the ham, while its fruity notes enhance the meat’s subtle sweetness, making for a perfect culinary match that highlights the best of Spanish cuisine.

History of Dominio de Es Estate

Bertrand Sourdais began his journey in Soria in 1999, where he encountered ancient, pre-phylloxera vineyards. These vines, some of which are over a century old, form the backbone of Dominio de Es. The winery was officially established in 2011 and focuses on producing small yields from 25 plots spread across 3.5 hectares in the village of Atauta. These plots are rented for 15 years, except for the vineyards La Diva and La Mata, which produce highly sought-after single-vineyard wines.

Dominio de Es is deeply committed to biodynamic practices and minimal intervention winemaking, allowing the natural characteristics of the terroir to shine through in their wines. Sourdais also owns Domaine de Pallus in Chinon, France, and runs another project in Ribera del Duero called Bodegas Antídoto, showcasing his dedication to crafting unique and high-quality wines in various regions​​.

Region and Vineyards

Dominio de Es is located in the eastern end of the Ribera del Duero, within the province of Soria. This area is characterized by a continental climate with significant temperature variations between day and night, which is ideal for growing high-quality grapes. The vineyards are planted on calcareous and sandy soils, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the distinct minerality of the wines.

The vineyards are meticulously managed, with a focus on sustainable practices to maintain the health and vitality of the vines. The combination of old vines, unique soils, and careful vineyard management results in grapes with intense flavors and complexity, essential for producing world-class wines.

Wine Range

Dominio de Es produces a range of wines that highlight the exceptional quality of their vineyards. Their flagship wine, Viñas Viejas de Soria, is a blend of Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) and Albillo, sourced from their oldest vineyards. This wine is known for its depth, elegance, and aging potential.

They also produce highly limited single-vineyard wines, such as La Diva and La Mata, which are renowned for their distinctiveness and quality.

These wines are aged in a combination of new and used French oak barrels, which adds complexity and integrates the flavors beautifully. The meticulous winemaking process ensures that each bottle reflects the unique terroir and the dedication of Bertrand Sourdais to his craft.

Did you know?

Dominio de Es utilizes pre-phylloxera vines, some of which are more than 100 years old. These ungrafted vines provide a rare and pure expression of the Soria terroir, producing wines with unparalleled depth and complexity. The winery's commitment to biodynamic practices further enhances the natural qualities of these exceptional vineyards.