Flor del Páramo Prieto Picudo Tinto 2009 Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León

Fashioned from 100% Prieto Picudo from old, low yielding vines the 2009 Flor del Páramo sports a saturated robe of garnet and deep purple. Highly aromatic from the moment it is opened, it entertains the nose with a myriad of smoky, floral scents and wild cherry tones that are both distinctive and thoroughly captivating. On the palate this youthful Prieto Picudo is generous and mouth filling. It explodes on the tongue with a burst of juicy, red and black fruit flavors, seasoned with hints of anise and freshly ground spices. On the back end, excellent structure and a warm, long finish round out the pleasure profile of this unique wine and leave the senses begging for more. We found the 2009 Flor del Páramo to be engaging from the moment it touched our glasses. Nevertheless, it improved further with aeration and when we returned to taste it for a second time several hours later, it was still full and fresh and smooth as silk. Given the plump, concentrated flavors inherent in Prieto Picudo and Flor del Páramo’s 14.5% alcohol content, we suggest at least 20-30 minutes of aeration for this wine before serving at cool room temperature (no more than 68º F).

The 2009 Flor del Páramo Prieto Picudo is the perfect wine to serve with Spain’s renowned jamón, tapas, or nearly any traditional Spanish dish that calls for red wine. A chicken and shrimp paella provides a tasty accompaniment, especially when the saffron in the paella does not overpower the other key ingredients in the dish. Rice and bean dishes, even moderately spiced black bean versions served with Cuban pork, should not be overwhelmed by Flor del Páramo, either. Flor del Páramo also provides an exemplary partner to a host of simple and sophisticated international fare. The wine’s full flavor and seamless structure make it easy to pair with nearly all types of meats. Tender young veal, grilled chicken, duck, and even steak complement the Flor del Páramo Prieto Picudo with aplomb. Marinated sirloin or flank steak, served with an artfully prepared orzo salad, with garbanzo beans, fresh tomatoes, red onion, and mint, constitutes a simple feast in the company of this distinctive 2009 wine. Many of Spain’s distinguished cheeses pair beautifully, too. So whether you are planning a special meal or an impromptu get together, the 2009 Flor del Páramo has plenty to offer. Enjoy!

Bodegas y Viñedos del Páramo and the winery’s highly acclaimed Flor del Páramo Prieto Picudo are making their international debut with this month’s feature. Born in Spain during the outstanding 2009 vintage, Bodegas y Viñedos del Páramo is devoted to the production of old vine Prieto Picudo, one of Spain’s rarest and most intense grape varieties. Bodegas y Viñedos del Páramo’s proprietor and devoted winemaker Pedro González Mittelbrun has dedicated his career to sourcing and managing the world’s remaining stands of Prieto Picudo. Moreover, he is the leading force behind the resuscitation of Prieto Picudo in its native León where he has sourced and managed nearly 80% of all remaining Prieto Picudo vineyards. His knowledge of this concentrated, dark skinned grape, the meticulous growers of the grape in León, and his consummate skill in fashioning world class wine from Prieto Picudo are second to none. With the launching of Bodegas y Viñedos del Páramo Pedro González Mittelbrun has turned a new page in the Oenological Renaissance that continues to encompass Spain, and according to Pedro González Mittelbrun this is only the beginning of his venture. He plans to offer in the near future other Prieto Picudo wines, including a bona fide Reserva. Stay tuned!