Diego de Almagro Reserva 2012

For centuries Valdepeñas in central Spain has prided itself on its fine long aged reds that cellar well. Yet few know the name. It means ‘valley of stones’, and the stony soils and sun-baked climate provide ideal conditions for vines. Winemaker at this outstanding family cellar is Antolin Gonzalez, who himself has many awards to his name. For the prized Diego de Almagro (winner of not only two Golds but 95 points too) he insists on only the finest low yielding Tempranillo grapes from his oldest vineyards. That way he knows the fruit will be really intense, here complemented by a year’s ageing in barrel. Now with over three years in bottle too, this Reserva has lots of mellow complexity. Enjoy with poultry, light game or a creamy risotto.